“I Am Running” Biden Asserts Amid Debate Fallout

United States President Joe Biden has firmly declared his intention to remain in the presidential race, countering widespread speculation that he was contemplating withdrawal after a lackluster debate performance against his Republican rival, former President Donald Trump, last week.

During a call with campaign staff on Wednesday, Biden emphasized his commitment to the race, addressing mounting concerns about his viability among some Democrats. “I am running,” Biden asserted, according to sources cited by Reuters. He stressed that he would not be pressured into relinquishing his position as the Democratic Party’s nominee.

White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre reinforced Biden’s stance in a press briefing, stating that the president was “absolutely not” considering stepping down.

This reassurance came in response to several U.S. media reports suggesting Biden acknowledged to close associates the challenges his campaign faced following his initial debate against Trump. Reports from The New York Times and ABC News indicated that Biden had conveyed to allies the critical nature of the coming days for regaining his footing, though he remained resolute in his determination to continue.

Biden, 81, made history as the oldest person inaugurated as U.S. president in 2021 after defeating Trump. A successful re-election bid would see him exit office at 86. Trump, if victorious in November, would also be 78 at the start of his second term.