A recent report reveals President Biden feels sidelined by the Democratic Party after fully backing Vice President Kamala Harris in her presidential run. According to an NBC News piece published Monday, Biden has expressed concern to his allies that his accomplishments as president are being overlooked, particularly as Harris seeks to establish her political identity apart from her former boss.
Biden has privately voiced frustration, feeling that after more than five decades of service to the party, his legacy is fading from the national conversation. Six sources familiar with his remarks confirmed this sentiment, stating that he’s noticed how quickly the Democratic Party has pivoted its focus away from him as Harris takes center stage.
Harris Distances Herself from Biden’s Record
The report indicates that Biden is especially troubled by Harris’ decision to downplay his role in her campaign speeches. The president believes Harris should acknowledge his economic policies while promoting her agenda. Sources close to Biden said he has noted her name omission when discussing financial matters, and he feels his administration is on the right track.
Harris’s recent debate with former President Donald Trump added to his frustration, during which she drew a sharp line between herself and Biden. “I am not Joe Biden. And I am certainly not Donald Trump. What I offer is a new generation of leadership for our country,” Harris said, emphasizing her desire to represent a shift from both Biden’s and Trump’s administrations.
Biden’s Support for Harris Remains Strong
Despite his concerns, Biden remains committed to Harris’ success, planning to support her campaign as much as possible. An anonymous senior Harris campaign official noted that Biden consistently tells Harris, “The most important thing is that you win.” The campaign has focused on defining Harris as an independent leader, with one official explaining, “She has to become her person to win.”
The White House, however, dismissed claims that Biden is upset. Andrew Bates, a spokesperson, stated that the president is pleased with the public’s response to Harris’ leadership. He also rejected reports of Biden’s dissatisfaction, calling them “the polar opposite of the truth.”
Biden’s Complex Feelings
According to sources, Biden understands the political necessity of distancing Harris from his record but is still “frustrated at times.” While he acknowledges the need for Harris to carve out her path, he also feels the weight of seeing his contributions diminish in the public eye.
One source described Biden’s emotions as complex, reflecting a desire for Harris to win and disappointment over his legacy’s diminishing presence.
Although Biden has accepted Harris’ candidacy, he remains confident that he could have beaten Trump in the upcoming election if he had run. During a recent appearance on The View, he stated, “I was confident I would beat Trump — he’s a loser,” expressing no regret over his decision to step aside for Harris.