The news has been confirmed that former President Barack Obama had a private meeting with current President Joe Biden this summer.
During the lunch, Obama reportedly warned Biden not to underestimate Donald Trump and pledged to support his re-election bid.
This news has come as a shock to many Republicans who are looking forward to the upcoming election in 2024.
Knowing that the 44th president of the US is already planning on supporting his successor’s campaign could be an indication of what lies ahead for the Republican Party.
It seems that even though Donald Trump may have a loyal following, Obama is still taking precautions and preparing for any potential surprises or issues that arise.
According to two people familiar with the meeting, Washington Post White House reporter Tyler Pager wrote about their conversation in June where Obama warned Biden about former President Trump’s political strengths, including an intensely loyal following, a pro-Trump conservative media ecosystem and a polarized country.
He also promised to do all he could to help get him reelected which was welcomed by the White House at such an important time leading up to 2024.
Despite there being no specific agenda, it appears that polling and Trump’s continued hold over the Republican Party were major topics during their discussion.
Additionally, while voicing concerns about Donald Trump’s candidacy for 2024, Obama made it clear his worries weren’t directed towards Joe Biden’s political abilities but rather just simply recognizing how powerful Trump remains within the party today.
Senior adviser Eric Schultz declined when asked by The Post if there was any specific agenda during their lunch but did confirm “Obama will tailor his campaign activity to maximize its effect.”
Although no further comments were made on behalf of Eric Schultz regarding fundraising efforts for Biden come fall time – TJ Ducklo spoke on behalf saying “President Biden is grateful for his unwavering support, and looks forward to once again campaigning side-by-side with President Obama” – so it seems definite that fundraising is something planned down the line.
