At a press event in San Francisco, Pelosi was asked if she had spoken to Joe or Jill Biden since his withdrawal. She responded cautiously, saying, “Not yet,” but expressed deep respect for Biden’s contributions and his decision to step aside, which she believed was in the best interest of the party and the nation.
Her comments followed speculation that Democratic leaders, including Pelosi, influenced Biden’s decision to withdraw. Concerns about his viability as a candidate grew after his poor debate performance against Trump, prompting private discussions among party leaders about the future of the Democratic ticket. Many reportedly urged Biden to reconsider his candidacy.
Despite Pelosi’s diplomatic tone, insiders suggest tensions remain between the Bidens and Pelosi. A source close to the Biden family revealed that Jill Biden felt betrayed by Democratic leaders who publicly supported Joe but privately pressured him to step down. “She was furious,” the source said, noting Joe’s difficult decision and Jill’s frustration with allies who seemed to abandon him.
Biden’s withdrawal, just months after securing the nomination, marked an unprecedented moment in modern politics, leaving the Democratic Party scrambling to find a new candidate to face Trump. Pelosi defended her actions, emphasizing the need for a strong Democratic ticket. “This election is about the future of democracy,” she said, stressing the importance of ensuring a winning nominee.
In his withdrawal announcement, Biden framed his decision as selfless, prioritizing the party and the nation over his candidacy. However, behind the scenes, some Biden allies accused Pelosi and others of undermining his campaign, leaving him feeling “pressured and abandoned.”
As the Democratic Party seeks a unifying candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as a frontrunner, with figures like California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also in consideration. Pelosi, a key party figure, continues to advocate for unity, urging Democrats to come together for the high-stakes election.
Biden’s withdrawal will have lasting repercussions, and Pelosi’s role in it will remain a topic of debate among political insiders for years to come.