In a recent episode of "Real Time," host Bill Maher raised eyebrows with his skepticism towards President Biden's sudden eagerness for debates, suggesting that it may indicate a growing fear of losing the 2024 presidential election. Maher even went as far as proposing the idea of replacing Biden on the Democratic ticket. The panel discussion, joined by esteemed journalists, delved into the potential impact of debates on the election outcome.

Maher kicked off the conversation by stating, "To me, it says Biden knows he's losing because otherwise he wouldn't have agreed. Only the loser wants to debate." Surprised by the prospect of summer debates, with the first scheduled for June 27, Maher pointed out that the Democratic Party had yet to hold its convention. He added humorously, "Well, they're not getting any younger."

The panel further debated whether these debates could significantly sway the election. New York Times columnist Pamela Paul expressed her opinion that the debates "are not going to be decisive," while reporter Nellie Bowles suggested they "might swing people."

However, Maher countered their views by suggesting that Biden has more to prove than former President Trump, as Trump's character and approach are already well-known. Maher stated, "They know he's gonna be an a--h--e. He's gonna be lurking and growling and not obeying the rules and everything else. But Biden, they want to see proof of life." Paul countered this by highlighting Biden's ability to deliver inspiring speeches, alluding to his State of the Union address earlier this year.

Humorously, Bowles jokingly suggested that there should be "drug testing" before the debates, eliciting laughter from the panel and audience.

As the discussion progressed, Maher expressed the belief that public opinion has shifted regarding Biden's chances of winning the election. From an initial assessment of victory for Biden after the last election, the consensus now seems to be leaning towards the idea that Biden may not have a strong chance at reelection. Maher emphasized that Biden is losing in most swing states, with Wisconsin being the exception, and by increasingly significant margins.

Maher went on to question whether it was too late to replace Biden as the Democratic candidate. He pointed out the interesting phenomenon in swing states, where Biden is trailing, but the Democratic Senate candidates are performing better. Maher suggested that this discrepancy indicates that the issue lies with Biden himself, concluding that the Democratic Party needs to take action to increase its chances of success.

Paul responded cautiously to Maher's remarks, alluding to the president's age by mentioning the possibility of his passing. Maher made it clear that they were "not rooting for that" and humorously compared their conversation to children gathered around a hospital bed.

It's worth noting that Maher had previously advocated for replacing Biden on the Democratic ticket back in February, following concerns raised about the president's mental acuity after Special Counsel Robert Hur's report.

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the question of how debates and perceptions of the candidates will shape the race becomes increasingly relevant. These discussions and opinions within the realm of political commentary contribute to the ongoing dialogue around the upcoming election.

It remains to be seen how President Biden's decision to engage in debates will ultimately impact his campaign and whether he can overcome the skepticism raised by commentators like Bill Maher.