Democrats Dreading Biden’s Re-Election Run
Democrats are rallying behind President Joe Biden and refuting claims of widespread panic within the party over his chances in the upcoming November reelection.
However, some Democrats, like strategist Stefan Hankin, confess to feeling a persistent “existential dread” since 2016, largely due to former President Donald Trump. This sentiment is fueled by Trump’s ongoing political presence and his third bid for the presidency. Hankin, president of Lincoln Park Strategies, a public opinion firm, highlighted this concern, predicting continuous anxiety until the election.
“If Biden had a substantial lead in every state, perhaps the dread would lessen, but the memory of 2016 still looms large,” Hankin told the Washington Examiner. He emphasized that the forthcoming debate between Biden and Trump would be pivotal. “A poor performance from Biden could trigger panic, raising fears of a repeat of 2016.”
Despite this, Democrats in key battleground states are offering strategic advice rather than succumbing to panic. Chris Wicker, former chairman of Washoe County Democrats in Nevada, where Biden narrowly won in 2020, acknowledged concerns about Biden’s chances, exacerbated by ongoing inflation. Wicker suggested Biden should highlight economic progress since January 2021 and contrast it with the chaos of Trump’s term.
In Wisconsin, crucial for maintaining the Democratic “blue wall,” Angela Lang, executive director of Black Leaders Organizing for Communities, described widespread frustration. She noted a desire among organizers for the Biden campaign to adjust its strategy based on public feedback. State Senator Chris Larson echoed this, stressing that traditional campaign tactics are insufficient and that Democrats must better address diverse demographic concerns.
A Democratic source close to the Biden administration revealed dissatisfaction with Biden’s decision to run for reelection, citing doubts about Vice President Kamala Harris’s suitability for the presidency. Meanwhile, Charlie Comfort from Iowa’s Oskaloosa City Council interpreted the situation as one of urgency, advocating for strategic changes to avoid potential defeat.
Democratic strategist Matt Angle urged colleagues to focus on the broader threat posed by Trump, describing him as a danger to democracy. Angle emphasized the importance of unity and action over complaints about Biden. Retiring Rep. Dan Kildee also advised against panic, viewing it as counterproductive.
Former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer expressed confidence in Biden’s ability to distinguish himself from Trump, citing Trump’s lack of respect for democratic principles. Hoyer and other Democrats believe the American people will ultimately reject Trump, as they did in 2020.
Overall, while concerns about Biden’s reelection persist among Democrats, many emphasize strategic adjustments, continued engagement with diverse voter groups, and a focus on contrasting Biden’s presidency with Trump’s tumultuous term as crucial steps forward.