President Joe Biden indicated on Monday that he plans to run for reelection in 2024 but isn’t ready to make it official, as speculation over the timing of his reelection campaign continues.
“I intend to run,” Biden told “Today” co-host Al Roker during a brief conversation at the White House Easter Egg Party. “But, we are not yet ready to publicise it.”
It’s not the first time the president has stated his plans, but his response is further confirmation as Biden slides past his closest advisers’ previously stated launch dates in February and, now, April. It’s also typical of Biden, who has been known to put off choices about running for president.
In November, Biden informed reporters that he planned to run again regardless of the outcome of the midterm elections. However, in February, Jill Biden told The Associated Press that there is “very much” nothing left to do but make the announcement.
“How many times does he have to say it before you believe it?” asked the first lady.
Despite repeated assurances from Biden, the 80-year-old president’s reluctance to give the go-ahead has put the Democratic Party in limbo, as other potential presidential candidates and significant funders covertly craft a Plan B while officially supporting Biden.
But, like Biden, his inner circle continues to quietly insist that he will run, with key aides Anita Dunn, Jen O’Malley Dillon, and Mike Donilon effectively directing the campaign-in-waiting. Biden’s aides have also taken efforts to staff a campaign and align with a leading super PAC, Future Forward, as AWN reported in late February.
With Democrats performing better than predicted in the midterm elections and no serious primary challengers, there is no reason to make an announcement. By deferring the official declaration, Biden avoids having to publish fundraising totals and other paperwork that comes with a formal statement.
On the Democratic side, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist who is the son of Robert F. Kennedy, filed paperwork to run with the Federal Election Commission last week. Marianne Williamson, a self-help author, officially launched her campaign in March.
Republicans are following suit. Former South Carolina governor and UN ambassador Nikki Haley announced her campaign in February, while Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are also generally expected to launch runs in 2024. But, former President Donald Trump, who announced his candidature for President in November, is still seen as the primary Republican opponent, and is utilising his recent indictment to generate funds.
With the news of Trump’s arrest last week, the White House stuck to the no-comment script, seizing the chance to contrast Biden’s “focus” on the American people with the commotion surrounding his predecessor.