Here's how it could work for everybody:
A handful of longtime Biden supporters and enablers, including, let's say, Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, Jill Biden, some key Democrats up for election and maybe a pollster or two, sit down with Joe and give him the lay of the land. It may come counter to what his inner circle has been telling him, including the strong likelihood he will lose to Donald Trump and damage Democrats down ticket chances. It would also include a frank discussion of the debate performance, and call into question how the inner circle has been protecting him for months, and that supporters and donors are feeling betrayed by that. If Joe stays in, it would be a white knuckle ride for the next four months with incredible pressure and scrutiny at every turn. Even if he wins they would face legitimate concern for the next four years and constant 25th Amendment challenges. You remind him that the Trump camp prefers Biden stay in the race,
It's not fair to Joe's accomplishments as President, legacy as a Democrat, or the primary process, but there we are.
How could you flip that instantly?
Joe steps aside -- soon -- and gives his full endorsement of Kamala Harris: the historic vice-president he chose for this very purpose. It is with sadness for a job he wanted to finish. But then again, he's not finished. The Joe Biden who is not running is now free to fulfill his presidential demands and a more relaxed slate of campaign appearances, where he will tout the living f#&% out of what the Biden/Harris administration did for America. With the pressure off he will make fewer gaffes. When he makes a gaffe, who cares? This is why we're running with younger sharper Kamala and the new VP who brings energy, demographics, a swing state and fresh donations.
Suddenly the s#!t show of the last two weeks disappears. The feeling across the board is......relief. Even Joe recognizes the advantages and the crazy loyalists who are spamming X can change the narrative to Joe's heroic sacrifice, the cementing of his legacy, and his much easier duties advising Harris/Cena on the nuances of foreign policy --- his strong suit.
Joe is given the keynote speech at the DNC's opening night and is greeted with a standing ovation. Biden has not been betrayed. This is simply the way it was supposed to be.
As pie-eyed as this might sound, it's also highly plausible.