Jeffries, Coons receive calls from Biden as Democratic worries grow louder

President Joe Biden called House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries on Tuesday, two people familiar with their conversation confirmed to POLITICO on Wednesday.

Biden also called staunch Hill ally Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), according to one of the people.

Meanwhile, another key Biden ally, Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.,) said Wednesday on CNN that he had yet to personally speak with the president following the debate but had been in touch with his personal aides.

"I want, like everybody else, to hear more from the president," Clyburn said, referring to more unscripted events and media interviews.

The news of the calls comes as many Democratic lawmakers — past and present — told POLITICO they have not heard directly from Biden after his debate performance Thursday. They have heard from senior staff but not from the president himself.

The New York Times reported the call with Jeffries first.