On Sunday, July 21, it came as no surprise that President Joe Biden withdrew from the 2024 race, and gave his support to Vice-President Kamala Harris. His decision came after mounting pressure from many, including politicians, the public and celebrities.
George Clooney, a well-known Hollywood actor and staunch supporter of the Democratic Party, had publicly urged President Joe Biden to step out of the 2024 presidential race. In an op-ed in The New York Times, Clooney expressed his worries about Biden’s ability to serve another term due to his advancing age and health concerns.
Clooney, 63, who has been a significant fundraiser for the 81-year-old president, questioned Biden’s physical and mental fitness in his opinion piece. The actor’s statements came on the heels of a record-setting $28 million fundraiser he hosted for Biden in Los Angeles, California on June 16. Clooney noted a marked decline in Biden’s performance at this event compared to previous years.
The Biden campaign responded by pointing out that it was Clooney, not Biden, who left the event early. Kayla Tausche, a CNN White House correspondent, reported that a campaign official told her that Clooney left three hours prior to the president’s departure, thereby countering Clooney’s claims and suggesting that Biden’s stamina exceeded that of the actor.
In response to host Jake Tapper’s question about Clooney leaving early, Tausche cited Biden’s upcoming travel and fundraising schedule, which includes stops in Michigan, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, and California, as evidence of his ongoing vigor and dedication to his campaign.
Clooney’s recent comments caused a stir in Biden’s campaign. Despite acknowledging Biden’s achievements and character, Clooney wrote, “But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can.” His public disapproval added to the growing number of Democrats expressing concerns about Biden’s candidacy. Hollywood personalities such as Rob Reiner and Michael Douglas also expressed worries and proposed considering a younger nominee who can challenge former President Donald Trump.
The op-ed by Clooney sparked heated debate within the Democratic Party. He cautioned that overlooking signs of Biden’s deteriorating health could result in the party losing the presidency and control of Congress. Despite the criticisms, Biden had remained committed to his re-election campaign, pointing to his rigorous travel and fundraising schedule as proof of his continued vitality, up until July 21.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre dismissed Clooney’s depiction of Biden, attributing any perceived performance lapses to jet lag and a cold. Still, Clooney’s critique has resonated with some Democratic donors and politicians, causing unrest within the party.
Michael Douglas, a longtime supporter of Biden, expressed worry over Clooney’s remarks. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also chimed in, suggesting that the decision about Biden’s run should be made sooner rather than later.
The impact of Clooney’s statements extends beyond politics, affecting Biden’s rapport with Hollywood. While some celebrities have backed Clooney’s call for Biden to withdraw, others have criticized him for voicing his concerns publicly. Despite the tension, Clooney’s hosting of the June fundraiser alongside actress Julia Roberts and former President Barack Obama, raised substantial funds for Biden’s campaign.
Clooney suggested potential candidates like Vice President Kamala Harris, Governors Wes Moore, Gretchen Whitmer, Gavin Newsom, Andy Beshear, and J.B. Pritzker should be considered.
