AOC expresses support for Biden's 2024 race despite critics

In the aftermath of President Joe Biden's lackluster performance in the June 27 presidential debate, concerns have arisen about his ability to continue in the race. Some Democratic lawmakers, including members of "The Squad" like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have expressed support for Biden and emphasized his commitment to staying in the 2024 race. Ocasio-Cortez stated that Biden has made it clear he is not leaving the race and that she stands behind him, urging him to focus on critical issues to win in November. Despite calls from a small group of Democratic lawmakers for Biden to step aside due to concerns about his age and performance, a larger number of Democrats have rallied behind the president. Ocasio-Cortez's endorsement of Biden comes at a crucial time as the debate over his candidacy intensifies. While some lawmakers have criticized Biden's debate performance and questioned his ability to effectively deliver his message, others have defended him and redirected criticism towards former President Donald Trump. The debate surrounding Biden's candidacy has sparked a divide within the Democratic Party, with differing opinions on whether he should withdraw from the race. While some lawmakers like Rep. Lloyd Doggett and Rep. Adam Smith have publicly called for Biden to drop out, others, including Ocasio-Cortez, have voiced their support for him. The focus remains on ensuring that the Democratic nominee is strong and capable of winning in November, with ongoing discussions about Biden's suitability to lead the party in the upcoming election. As Congress reconvened for its first full week since the debate, Democratic lawmakers were largely evasive when questioned about Biden's candidacy. The debate over Biden's future in the race continues to unfold, with contrasting views within the party on whether he should remain as the nominee. The situation remains fluid as Democrats navigate the complexities of supporting their candidate while addressing concerns about his performance and electability.