President Joe Biden is working to regain momentum and reassure donors at a Saturday fundraiser following a lackluster performance at the first presidential debate. Many Democrats have expressed concerns about his ability to defeat Donald Trump, viewing the former president as a serious threat to U.S. democracy after the January 6, 2021, insurrection.

During the debate, Biden's meandering answers and struggles to respond to Trump prompted The New York Times editorial board to suggest that he should exit the race, calling his continued participation a "reckless gamble." However, the president and his wife, Jill, attended a campaign event in East Hampton, New York, held at the home of Avram Glazer, owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers football team. The event, closed to the news media, remained exclusive to donors.

Following Thursday's debate, Biden appeared more vigorous in speeches delivered in North Carolina and New York on Friday. His determination to overcome the debate setback was evident as he declared that he believed, "with all my heart and soul," that he could fulfill the duties of the presidency.

The Biden campaign reported raising over $27 million on Thursday and Friday, including $3 million at a New York City fundraiser focused on supporting the LGBTQ+ community. These funds will undoubtedly provide a boost to Biden's campaign, despite concerns raised by the debate performance.

Jill Biden shared that her husband had expressed uncertainty about his debate performance, saying, "You know, Jill, I don't know what happened. I didn't feel that great." In response, she reassured him, "Look, Joe, we are not going to let 90 minutes define the four years that you've been president."

However, the fallout from the debate continues to linger, with clips and memes spreading across the internet and mounting pressure on Biden to step aside. Democratic donors in New York, Southern California, and Silicon Valley have expressed private concerns about the viability of his campaign. Some have even discussed potential replacements, including Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Nevertheless, as of now, there is no formal push to pressure Biden to withdraw from the race. The logistical challenges associated with replacing the presumptive nominee just four months before Election Day seem to deter any immediate action. Nonetheless, some donors have decided to pause their personal giving, questioning the impact of Biden's debate performance.

The president looks to the fundraising event this weekend to reassure donors and demonstrate his commitment to the campaign. While tickets were sold and paid for before the debate, the receipts are expected to be strong, providing a much-needed boost for the Biden campaign. As the race progresses, Biden must address the concerns raised by the debate fallout and solidify his position among donors and supporters alike.