Joe Biden Vows to Continue Campaign Amid Party Concerns and Debate Flop

President Joe Biden addresses internal party concerns following a poor debate performance, asserting his capability to run for another term. An ABC interview with George Stephanopoulos is seen as a crucial test of his fitness. Democratic senators and representatives express divided opinions on whether Biden should continue his reelection campaign.

President Joe Biden, fighting to save his endangered reelection effort, labeled his disastrous debate performance last week as a "bad episode" in a highly anticipated ABC interview on Friday. Biden asserted there were ''no indications of any serious condition,'' marking this interview as a significant test of his fitness to run for office.

"I didn't listen to my instincts in terms of preparing,'' Biden told ABC's George Stephanopoulos in an excerpt that aired Friday evening. Despite his rigorous efforts to rebound from the debate, party frustrations persist, with a notable Democratic senator urging Biden to consider exiting the race.

During a rally in Wisconsin, Biden was determined to prove his capacity to remain president. Asked if he would halt his campaign, he decisively ruled it out, stating his confidence in serving another four years. Addressing supporters, he acknowledged his subpar debate performance but reaffirmed, "I am running, and I'm going to win again."

The interview with Stephanopoulos, seen as a crucial moment, underscores increasing private angst among Democratic lawmakers, donors, and strategists following Biden's poor debate showing. Most in the party are publicly holding fire as they wait to see if Biden can restore confidence during his weekend travel schedule and the full ABC interview airing Friday night.

Significantly, Sen. Mark Warner has reached out to fellow senators to discuss asking Biden to exit the race, highlighting the deep concerns within party ranks. Meanwhile, at least three House Democrats have publicly called for Biden to step down, urging a reevaluation of his capacity to serve another term.

Biden's campaign pushes ahead with significant plans, including a USD 50 million ad campaign paired with his in-person events. As pressure mounts, every moment is critical for Biden to restore lost confidence, making his weekend engagements and media appearances pivotal.

(With inputs from agencies.)