BREAKING: NYT report says Biden is considering bowing out of race, White House claims story is false

A new report from the New York Times has said that Biden has told a key ally that he is considering stepping out of the race, coming amid increased pressure from both sides of the political aisle after Biden’s dismal debate performance. The White House has stated that the report is false.

Biden reportedly told the ally that he may not be able to salvage his campaign if he is unable to convince the public in the coming days that he is still able to do the job. The ally stressed that Biden is still in the fight for reelection, but understands that his next few appearances will be critical. One of those interviews will take place with George Stephanopoulos of ABC News on Friday.

White House spokesman Andrew Bates told the outlet after their article was published that this was "absolutely false."

The ally, who spoke to the Times on the condition of anonymity, said Biden "knows if he has two more events like that, we’re in a different place." In addition to the ABC interview, Biden has two upcoming campaign stops in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

A top advisor to Biden, who also spoke on the condition of anonymity, said Biden was "well aware of the political challenge he faces."

A CBS News/YouGov poll conducted after the CNN debate has found that Trump now holds a 2-point lead over Biden nationwide, and a 3-point lead in key battleground states.

A group of at least 25 House Democrats is preparing to call for Biden to step aside in the coming days. Rep Lloyd Doggett became the first congressional Democrat to call for Biden to end his 2024 bid on Tuesday, and former Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan has called for Kamala Harris to be the Democrat Party’s nominee.