In a significant divide within the Democratic party, House Democrats are grappling with the question of whether President Biden should step aside, while others firmly defend him. As lawmakers return to Washington this week, discussions about Biden's fate have intensified following his lackluster debate performance in June, which raised doubts among many about his ability to win against Donald Trump in November.

Amidst growing concerns, nine House Democrats have publicly and privately called for Biden to exit the race, while at least 18 current and former top Democrats have raised concerns about his fitness for office and ability to defeat Trump. The calls for Biden to step aside have been primarily limited to House lawmakers, but some senators are also expressing similar fears about Biden's chances.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer are walking a delicate tightrope, torn between their allegiance to Biden and their members' concerns about retaining their majority positions in the upcoming elections.

In an effort to quell the unease among Democrats, Biden's campaign has increased its outreach to lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Biden himself sent a two-page letter to all congressional Democrats reaffirming his commitment to staying in the race and defeating Donald Trump, urging the party to come together and focus on the task ahead.

However, some House Democrats and aides feel that the outreach efforts are too little, too late, and should have commenced immediately after the debate. Lawmakers want to see tangible proof of Biden's capability to overcome the challenges posed by his opponents.

As tensions rise, House committees held a virtual off-the-record call where members were divided over whether to defend or desert Biden. Top Democrats on committees voiced their support for ditching Biden, while others passionately defended him, highlighting his historic presidency and vision for the future. Democrats emphasized that there is little evidence thus far to suggest that Biden cannot defeat Trump again.

The divide among House Democrats has sparked public criticism from some, who argue that leaking private meetings and grievances to the media is counterproductive. It is evident that Congress needs to make a decision soon, as time is running out and the party cannot afford to remain divided on such a crucial issue.

While Democratic senators have been less vocal compared to their House counterparts, behind the scenes, many senators also share concerns about Biden's viability. Senator Mark R. Warner has reportedly pushed for a group to coalesce around a strategy for Biden's exit, although his plan for an in-person meeting appears to have been scrapped. Instead, senators are expected to discuss Biden's future at their regularly scheduled Tuesday lunch.

As this critical week unfolds, the president's performance on the campaign trail and at the NATO summit will undoubtedly impact the ongoing debate about his future. Democrats are on the precipice of a decision that will shape the course of the upcoming elections, and there is urgency among lawmakers to either secure Biden's position as their nominee or find an alternative path forward.