President Barack Obama told a group of Democratic donors on Friday that Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is nearing the end of his presidential campaign, so the time is approaching for the party to unite behind front-runner Hillary Clinton,
The New York Times reports.
Obama told a Democratic National Committee fundraiser in Austin, Texas, that Clinton does have perceived weaknesses and admitted that some in the party view her as not being authentic, according to attendees who talked to the Times.
But, Obama argued, authenticity isn't as important as some may think, pointing out that former President George W. Bush was once praised for his authenticity.
"Mr. Obama chose his words carefully, and did not explicitly call on Mr. Sanders to depart the race," the Times reported. "Still, those in attendance said in interviews that they took his comments as a signal to Mr. Sanders that perpetuating his campaign, which is now an uphill climb, could only help the Republicans recapture the White House."
The Times said Obama's comments were confirmed by a White House official, specifically that Obama knew some Democrats are not "excited" by Clinton's candidacy. But
NBC News reported that White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest disputed the story, telling reporters that Obama "did not indicate or specify a preference in the race."
"As Democrats move through this competitive primary process, we need to be mindful of the fact that our success in November in electing a Democratic president will depend on the commitment and ability of the Democratic party to come together behind our nominee," Earnest said.
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