Staff Reports
Evidence suggests that former President Barack Obama may have given actor George Clooney a nudge before Clooney penned a scathing op-ed for the New York Times urging President Joe Biden to step down from seeking reelection. On “Morning Joe,” host Joe Scarborough hinted at Obama “orchestrating” Biden’s exit strategy, pointing to a Politico report detailing a private conversation between Clooney and the ex-president leading up to the publication of the controversial piece.
In the alleged phone call between Clooney and Obama, the Hollywood star reportedly informed Obama of his decision to withdraw his support for Biden after observing the president’s lackluster performance. The timing of Clooney’s change of heart, just weeks after hosting a fundraiser benefiting Biden’s campaign alongside Obama, raised eyebrows about the former vice president’s ability to endure the rigors of another term in office.
🚨🚨 JUST IN: Obama 'Greenlit' Clooney's Shocking Op-Ed Calling For Biden To Step Asidehttps://t.co/tHM865nYX4
— JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) July 11, 2024
Clooney’s op-ed landed like a bombshell, prompting a frenzy of responses from the White House as key Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, are said to have subtly signaled their approval for distancing themselves from Biden in anticipation of a tough electoral battle. Pelosi’s call for Biden to consider stepping aside and Schumer’s reported discussions with major party donors about alternative ticket options indicate a growing unease within Democratic circles about the viability of a Biden-led campaign.
As the political climate heats up and divisions within the Democratic Party become more apparent, the repercussions of Clooney’s op-ed and the behind-the-scenes maneuvering by Obama raise questions about the unity and future direction of the party leading up to the crucial midterm elections.
