Biden faces increased pressure from Democrats as COVID pauses campaign

LAS VEGAS :  President Joe Biden is facing renewed scrutiny over his candidacy for the upcoming November election, with campaign events paused due to a COVID-19 infection.

Top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have reportedly met with Biden to voice their concerns about his campaign.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has privately expressed doubts about his ability to defeat Donald Trump.

Biden, who is experiencing mild symptoms, will continue his duties while isolating at home.

This latest setback follows a problematic debate performance against Trump last month.

Mr Biden was seen earlier in the day visiting supporters in Las Vegas and speaking at an event. He was forced to cancel a speech later in the day at Unidos US, a Latino civil rights organisation.

It marked a sudden and debilitating end to a trip that was supposed to see Mr Biden hitting the campaign trail again with full force – after the pause sparked by the attempted assassination of his rival Trump.

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The president had spent time in Las Vegas trying to revive his appeal among Hispanic voters, with whom his poll lead has slipped since 2020.

Later on Wednesday, he was seen moving slowly and cautiously up the steps to Air Force One. He was not wearing a mask. As he boarded the plane, he was heard to say: “Good, I feel good.”

As the aircraft bounced its way through the hot air above Nevada, Mr Biden’s re-election bid hit even more turbulence than it was already experiencing after last month’s fumbling performance against Trump in the televised debate.

This election campaign feels like it is moving at a chaotic, unpredictable pace.

Mr Biden has faced growing calls to withdraw from the election race in recent weeks.