Former US president Barack Obama has told allies in recent days that President Joe Biden’s path to victory has greatly diminished, and he thinks the incumbent needs to seriously consider the viability of his candidacy, according to multiple people briefed on his thinking.

Mr Obama has spoken with Mr Biden only once since the debate, and he has been clear in his conversations with others that the future of Mr Biden’s candidacy is a decision for the president to make. He has emphasised that his concern is protecting Mr Biden and his legacy, and has pushed back against the idea that he alone can influence Mr Biden’s decision-making process.

Washington Post