We have reached the point where Democrats need to make some painful decisions regarding the candidacy of President Biden. I would note that a few of us publicly urged him two years ago to announce he would not seek re-election. The reasons included his age and the need to focus on the future. It was also to spare him unfair attacks on him and his family which were inevitable. His lack of popularity, which began after the withdrawal from Afghanistan, continued and it seemed unlikely that, despite his many accomplishments during his term, his popularity would not return until after he had left the White House – in many respects like Harry Truman.

His decision to run again at the age of 81 (82 before year’s end) was fraught with peril. His opponent was obviously going to be Donald Trump. That meant a continuing barrage of lies and personal attacks on him and his family. It also meant that losing had far greater consequences for our country and the world than any other opponent would have represented.

Most long-time elected officials have great confidence in their ability to win campaigns. However, very few run for President at Biden’s age. We all decline as we get older and, while we can often still perform at a high level, we can also be lost (as was obvious in the President’s debate performance). In most instances, that is not a problem. However, it is if you are the President of the United States.

Biden has decided to stay in a race that he has little chance of winning. He is using all of his resources to make it harder than ever for Democrats and the nation to have a chance against Trump. It will require a lot of profiles in courage to move him and change the outcome. Let’s hope we have enough modern day heroes who will risk their political careers to save the country. Many of us looked to Republicans to do this and they failed the test.

Democrats, it is up to you.