In a recent appearance at Harvard University’s Institute of Politics, former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the internal dissent within the Democratic Party that led to then-President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. She described the intense criticism from party leaders as a “firing squad,” expressing shock at the unprecedented nature of such intra-party conflict.
Jean-Pierre recounted the three-week period following a particularly challenging debate performance by Biden in June 2024. During this time, prominent Democratic figures, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, publicly questioned Biden’s viability as the party’s nominee. This wave of criticism created a significant rift within the party and ultimately influenced Biden’s decision to step down.
Reflecting on the situation, Jean-Pierre noted, “I had never seen a party do that in the way that they did, and it was hurtful and sad to see that happening—a firing squad around a person who I believe was a true patriot.” She emphasized that, in her view, Biden had achieved more in his single term than many presidents accomplish in two, making the internal opposition particularly disheartening.
The internal turmoil within the Democratic Party during this period was further compounded by Biden’s controversial decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, who had been convicted on federal tax evasion and firearms charges. This move drew criticism from both Republicans and members of his own party, including Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Senator Michael Bennet, who argued that it undermined public trust in the justice system.
Jean-Pierre’s comments highlight the challenges faced by the Democratic Party during a tumultuous election cycle, marked by internal divisions and controversial decisions that have had lasting impacts on its unity and public perception.
