WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden engaged in a pivotal effort to manage perceptions during a Friday-night interview on ABC News, aiming to reassure Democrats of his viability as the strongest contender against former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election.

Despite Biden's earnest attempts, his performance failed to alleviate concerns among congressional Democrats, who privately conveyed profound unease about the trajectory of his candidacy. Following the 22-minute interview with ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos, more than half a dozen Democratic lawmakers characterized Biden's political standing in stark terms, labeling it as "heartbroken," "doomed," and a "disaster."

On Saturday morning, Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesota, a prominent Democrat, publicly called for Biden to "step aside for the next generation of leadership," a sentiment echoed by others who have begun reassessing their support for Biden in light of recent developments.

"I found the interview disheartening," confessed one Democratic lawmaker, criticizing Biden for appearing out of touch and disconnected from current realities. Concerns among frontline Democrats have escalated to the point where discussions have begun about drafting a public letter addressing Biden directly when Congress reconvenes in Washington, D.C.

"Frontline Democrats are deeply frustrated and personally inclined to advocate for Biden's withdrawal, but they are politically cautious," noted a senior aide to a frontline Democrat, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the issue.

Predicting more calls for Biden to step aside, another House Democrat emphasized the urgency of confronting the issue directly, asserting, "Ignoring this problem won't persuade our constituents that he is capable of leading for another four years."

Reflecting on Biden's refusal to undergo a cognitive test, another Democratic lawmaker highlighted the growing concern among colleagues, many of whom believe a different nominee might be necessary to secure the party's electoral prospects.

Despite these challenges, the Biden campaign defended the interview as a demonstration of the president's ability to handle tough questions and reiterated his stance on the upcoming election.

Meanwhile, potential Democratic presidential contenders such as Governors Gavin Newsom of California, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, and Wes Moore of Maryland reaffirmed their support for Biden, signaling solidarity within the party's leadership.

Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Rep. Nanette Barragán, echoed these sentiments, praising Biden's responses during the interview as indicative of his understanding of critical issues and effective communication skills.

As discussions intensify within the Democratic Party about Biden's political future, uncertainties persist over his ability to weather recent criticisms and maintain his position as the party's nominee.