President Joe Biden has vowed to continue his reelection campaign despite growing calls from fellow Democrats to end his bid, fearing it could harm the party in the upcoming November election.

Over one in ten congressional Democrats have publicly urged the 81-year-old president, currently isolating with COVID-19, to step aside following a poor debate performance against Republican Donald Trump in June. The debate raised concerns about Biden’s ability to win and serve another term.

Biden remained defiant, stating, “I look forward to getting back on the campaign trail next week to continue exposing the threat of Donald Trump’s Project 2025 agenda while making the case for my own record and vision for America.”

The divide among Democrats contrasts sharply with the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where former rivals united around Trump. So far, 32 of the 264 congressional Democrats have openly called for Biden to end his campaign, with other senior leaders pushing him privately.

Democrats fear a Republican sweep that could give Trump control of both the White House and Congress. Representative Zoe Lofgren, a close ally of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, wrote to Biden, urging him to step aside to avoid losing the White House and impacting down-ballot races.

Biden’s campaign chairwoman, Jen O’Malley Dillon, acknowledged the challenging path to reelection but emphasized his steady support. Polls show Biden and Trump tied nationally, but Biden trails in key battleground states.

If Biden steps aside, Vice President Kamala Harris could take his place. Reuters/Ipsos polling shows her performing marginally better against Trump in a head-to-head matchup.