As Democrats debate the future of President Biden’s candidacy, one influential name frequently mentioned is former President Obama. Yet, despite considerable speculation, Obama has largely remained silent, only making a brief comment on the social platform X two weeks ago.
His discretion has been notable, especially as he has continued to make public appearances, such as being seen embracing basketball icons like LeBron James and Dawn Staley. This has contrasted sharply with the vocal criticisms from some of his former advisors, including political strategist David Axelrod, and celebrities like Oscar winner George Clooney.
Privately, a source close to Obama revealed that the former president is concerned about the current state of the race and Biden’s prospects, particularly after recent developments. Despite these concerns and ongoing discussions with senior Democrats like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, as reported by CNN, Obama remains undecided on the best course of action.
Other insiders insist that if there were to be any intervention regarding Biden’s candidacy, it would not be a solo effort by Obama. Instead, it would likely involve a collective approach with figures such as Pelosi or Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.).
Those familiar with Obama’s cautious approach to political capital emphasize his strategic nature. “The Obamas are very deliberate about how they use their influence. They engage only in certainties,” one source explained. “Obama’s strength lies in his ability to reflect people’s aspirations and maintain a strategic ambiguity in his public persona.”
After George Clooney penned an op-ed in The New York Times advocating for Biden to withdraw, reports surfaced that he had informed Obama beforehand, yet the former president did not attempt to sway Clooney’s actions.
Obama’s relationship with many of his vocally critical former aides, like Axelrod and the hosts of the “Pod Save America” podcast, is not close, with one former aide expressing surprise at any recent direct communication with Obama.
Obama, who has helped raise at least $65 million for Biden, continues to be a major support figure for his former vice president, offering advice during critical moments. Their relationship, while generally strong, has faced strains, notably in 2015 when Obama and his advisors discouraged Biden from running against Hillary Clinton.
In his memoir, Biden recalls a 2015 conversation with Obama at the White House, where Obama was non-committal about Biden’s potential candidacy, reflecting concerns about Biden’s recent personal loss and the formidable challenge of the campaign.
During a 2019 fundraiser, Obama hinted at concerns about the demands of the presidency and the challenges associated with Biden’s age, though he stopped short of directly questioning Biden’s fitness for the role.
Throughout the 2020 campaign, Obama was openly worried about Biden’s potential missteps under media scrutiny, even convening a meeting with Biden’s team to discuss campaign strategies.
Despite last month’s challenging debate for Biden, sources confirm that the Obama-Biden bond remains intact, with Biden still seeking Obama’s counsel, underscoring a deep and philosophical connection.
Sources close to Obama, however, deem it unlikely that he would independently urge Biden to withdraw from the race. A former aide emphasized, “Obama won’t be the one to push Biden out. It’s ultimately Biden’s decision, and it’s unlikely anyone will sway him otherwise.”
