Biden’s Campaign in Peril as Trump Rides High

President Joe Biden is reconsidering his campaign for reelection amid mounting pressure from Democratic leaders who fear a landslide defeat. In contrast, former President Donald Trump is solidifying support during the Republican National Convention, particularly following an assassination attempt.

President Joe Biden was "soul searching" about dropping his Democratic reelection campaign, a source said, while Donald Trump prepared to accept the Republican presidential nomination in what aides said would be an unusually reflective speech.

The fortunes of the two candidates appeared to be on opposite trajectories on Thursday in the run-up to the Nov. 5 election. Biden, 81, was isolating at his Delaware home after contracting COVID-19, while facing a growing revolt from Democrats who urged him to step aside to avert a landslide defeat. His doctor said he was experiencing mild symptoms.

Trump, 78, has basked all week in adulation at the Republican National convention in Milwaukee after surviving Saturday's assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally. Trump's acceptance speech, scheduled for 10 p.m. Eastern Time (0200 GMT on Friday), offers him a chance to lay out his vision for a second White House term before a prime time national television audience.

(With inputs from agencies.)