In a dramatic political intervention that has sent shockwaves through Washington, Hollywood A-lister and longtime Democratic supporter George Clooney has publicly called for President Joe Biden to abandon his re-election bid.
A Stark Warning From a Loyal Ally
The Oscar-winning actor and prominent fundraiser, who hosted a star-studded event for Biden just weeks ago, published a stunning op-ed stating the 81-year-old president cannot win against Donald Trump in November.
'It's time to stop pretending,' Clooney wrote in a piece that represents the most significant Democratic defection to date. 'The Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago was not the Joe Biden of 2020.'
The Case for Kamala Harris
Clooney didn't merely criticise the incumbent president—he presented a clear alternative. The political heavyweight threw his substantial influence behind Vice President Kamala Harris, arguing she represents the party's strongest chance to retain the White House.
Key points from Clooney's argument include:
- Biden's debate performance was not a 'one-off' but revealing of his current state
- The Democratic Party is losing crucial fundraising momentum
- Kamala Harris could unite the party and energise the base
- Continuing with Biden risks a catastrophic Trump victory
Political Earthquake in Democratic Circles
The actor's declaration comes amid growing panic within Democratic ranks following Biden's shaky debate performance against Trump. While some party leaders have expressed concerns privately, Clooney's very public stance gives cover to other wavering Democrats to speak out.
'This isn't just another celebrity opinion,' noted one Democratic strategist. 'Clooney has been a serious political player and major fundraiser for years. When he speaks, people in power listen.'
The White House Response
The Biden campaign has pushed back vigorously against calls for the president to step aside, insisting he remains committed to the race and is best positioned to defeat Trump. However, Clooney's intervention represents the most significant challenge to that narrative from within the Democratic establishment.
As the Democratic National Convention approaches in August, pressure is mounting for a resolution to the leadership question that has divided the party at the worst possible moment.
