Washington D.C.

After US President Joe Biden's controversial debate performance against Donald Trump, his wife and the First Lady Jill Biden's support has sparked intense debate among democrats with many calling for a change in presidential candidacy. A few are even calling upon the US First Lady to advise the US president to withdraw from the race. 

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Jill Biden's ex-husband Bill Stevenson has joined the chorus of critics. Stevenson, who was married to Jill Biden from 1970 to 1975, had previously supported Joe Biden's politics, including his vice-presidential bid alongside Barack Obama in 2008 and his Senate seat in 1972. 

But in 2020, he accused Biden of being a "home wrecker" and alleged that their relationship began while Jill was still married to him in 1974, a claim the couple has consistently denied.

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Stevenson said while criticising Jill Biden's stance over consistent support to Joe Biden. "I just don't understand why she is so adamant about defending him and keeping him in the race since it appears that he's struggling."

After praising his ex-wife's abilities and recalling how he watched her grow, he expressed his disbelief to see her "front and center in the middle of this battle."

Stevenson's remarks have added fuel to the fire, as Democrats increasingly question Jill Biden's influence on the President's decision to seek re-election despite his controversial debate performance.

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"I’ve been proud of her at certain moments. I have no hard feelings … I’m just surprised to see her front and center in the middle of this battle after flying under the radar for so many years. She’s always been very driven. People say she’s the one who wants to be president now," he continued. 

Meanwhile, reports say that the US President Joe Biden is expected to discuss the future of his re-election campaign with his family.

Despite calls from political commentators for Biden to step down, no high-ranking elected Democrats have joined the chorus. In fact, former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton publicly repeated their support for Biden.

(With inputs from agencies)