His party at a crossroads, Biden faces the next tests Thursday -- in public, at a scheduled news conference that many Democrats will be watching for signs of his abilities, and privately, as his top advisers meet with the Senate Democratic caucus to discuss their concerns and shore up support.

The Wall Street Journal is tracking public comments by members of Congress about the president’s run for a second term.

Vermont Sen. Peter Welch on Wednesday became the first Democratic senator to call on President Joe Biden to step aside as the party’s presidential nominee.

Speaking to nearly 200 Democratic mayors, the president again acknowledged he had a poor first debate and took softball questions about his campaign and second-term agenda.

Mayor Brandon Johnson was unequivocal in his backing of President Joe Biden following the embattled incumbent’s latest move to defy internal party pressure to step down as the nominee. Johnson released a long letter vigorously pledging his support for Biden after a Tuesday evening call between the president and 200 Democratic mayors.

The virtual meeting will include other Democratic mayors from around the country, according to a person familiar with the plans. Biden plans to give remarks and take questions from the mayors. "He's running on a record of accomplishment,