Former President Barack Obama has told allies in recent weeks that he thinks President Biden’s chances have deteriorated, and Biden should seriously consider whether he can win.

Obama has spoken only once to Biden since the debate. In conversations with others, he has been explicit about leaving that decision to the president. Obama has tried to emphasize to several associates his interest in protecting Biden and his own legacy from any political damage—and has denied any notion that an Obama endorsement would determine Biden’s decision.

Those familiar with the calls describe how behind the scenes, Obama has been working to debate the future of Biden’s campaign. He has received several concerned Democrats, including that of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat of California, and offered his views about the president’s problems. The people spoke on the condition of anonymity to talk about private conversations.

A spokesman for Obama declined to comment.

Obama’s Support for Biden

Obama thinks he serves as a sounding board and adviser to his former vice president. He has told friends that he feels protective of Biden. In conversations, Obama has said that he believes Biden has been a great president and that he wants to protect his legacy, which could well be in jeopardy if Republicans can win the White House, and the Senate and House, next year.

Publicly, Biden and his campaign advisers have struck a defiant tone, insisting that the president is going to keep battling on. On Wednesday, Biden abruptly canceled a campaign swing in Las Vegas after learning he tested positive for the coronavirus. He then returned to his vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Del., to quarantine.

On Thursday morning, Principal Deputy Campaign Manager Quentin Fulks said Biden’s campaign was marching forward. “He is resolute in his decisions,” Fulks said. “The president has made his choice. I don’t mean to sound dismissive, but I’m not sure how many more times we need to address that.”

Democrats Seek Leadership Guidance

Meanwhile, Obama’s concerns come as there is growing unease in the Democratic Party about Biden’s chances and what it portends for other candidates. Democratic donors, activists, and elected officials are increasingly seeking counsel from a small group of veteran leaders on how best to deal with the fallout of Biden’s troubled performance in the June 27 debate.