 The number of House Democrats publicly calling for the president to step aside in the wake of his poor debate performance has been gradually growing. Congressman Adam Smith, the ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, now says he thinks it would be a mistake for Biden to continue his campaign. But others, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus, are strongly defending the president's decision to stay in the race. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says the president's letter to lawmakers saying he intends to keep campaigning is a reflection of his character.