As Democrats continue to question whether President Biden will remain the party’s nominee, former President Donald J. Trump has remained relatively quiet on the matter publicly.
Despite his usual outspoken nature, Mr. Trump has refrained from making extensive public comments since last week’s debate. He has given some radio interviews and maintained an active presence on his social media platform, Truth Social. However, Mr. Trump has largely allowed the Democratic Party to drive the conversation surrounding Mr. Biden’s political future, indicating his preferred opponent.
According to two advisers who requested anonymity to discuss strategy, after consistently criticizing Mr. Biden’s physical and mental capabilities, the former president seems content to let the news coverage of Democrats questioning their leader gain traction.
One of the advisers also noted that Mr. Trump’s limited public statements on the issue suggest his preference for Mr. Biden to remain in the race. He appears confident in his ability to defeat the president in November.
A recent New York Times/Siena College poll indicated that some Republican voters agree with this sentiment. 28 percent of them believe Mr. Biden should continue as the Democratic nominee, up from 21 percent in a previous poll conducted before the debate.
Despite speculation, Mr. Trump publicly dismissed the idea of Mr. Biden being replaced on the Democratic ticket, citing experts who believe it would be challenging for another candidate to enter the race.
While Mr. Trump has not extensively commented on the issue, he has highlighted polling data that shows Mr. Biden performing better against him than other potential replacements. He has also engaged in some mocking of his opponent, suggesting that Mr. Biden may exit the race.
If Mr. Biden were to step aside, Mr. Trump would lose key attack lines that have been central to his campaign. His messaging comparing his presidency to Mr. Biden’s would also be impacted if another candidate took the nominee’s place.
Despite preparations for a potential matchup against a different Democratic candidate, Mr. Trump and his allies have intensified their focus on Vice President Kamala Harris. They have launched attacks linking her to Mr. Biden’s policies, emphasizing her potential role should he not continue in the race.
While Mr. Trump seems to anticipate facing Ms. Harris in the general election, some in his circle are preparing for various scenarios. They emphasize the importance of being ready for any changes in the political landscape as the election approaches.
In a video clip at his golf club, Mr. Trump hinted at a potential matchup with Ms. Harris, expressing confidence in facing her as his opponent.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of Mr. Trump, also acknowledged the shifting dynamics of the 2024 race, particularly if Ms. Harris becomes the Democratic nominee. He emphasized the need for Republicans to build on President Trump’s achievements in expanding the party’s reach.
