Biden does have one major advantage.
During a discussion at Arizona State University on David Axelrod’s CNN podcast The Axe Files, seasoned political strategists Karl Rove and David Plouffe found common ground in acknowledging the significant financial edge enjoyed by President Joe Biden over his predecessor, Donald Trump, in the ongoing battle for the White House.
Emphasizing that while money isn’t the sole determinant of electoral success, both Rove and Plouffe underscored its pivotal role, particularly in closely contested races. Plouffe observed that although Biden and Trump are widely recognized figures in American politics, the impending tightness of the election necessitates campaigns to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory—a task for which financial resources are indispensable.
“In races where candidates lack widespread recognition, finances often dictate the narrative, shaping perceptions of both candidates and the overall race,” Plouffe remarked. “In such a closely fought contest, having ample resources allows campaigns to exert greater control over messaging, define their opponents, and mobilize supporters effectively.”
Rove concurred with Plouffe’s assessment, highlighting the potential ripple effects of Biden’s financial advantage, particularly in bolstering ground operations crucial for voter turnout—a critical factor in closely contested battlegrounds. Additionally, Rove pointed to internal strife within Republican state parties across key swing states, which could further compound the GOP’s challenges.
“The Democrats’ financial muscle not only affords them a strategic edge but also enables robust grassroots mobilization—an aspect where the Republican Party, especially in battleground states, appears to be faltering,” Rove noted. “In contrast, the disarray within several state Republican parties undermines their organizational capacity and underscores the significance of financial resources in navigating these challenges.”
Despite emphasizing the importance of financial resources, both strategists were quick to acknowledge that money alone wouldn’t determine the outcome of the election. Plouffe reiterated that while Biden’s financial advantage might provide a crucial edge, particularly in pivotal battleground states, other factors would ultimately influence the electorate’s decision.
Biden’s recent high-profile fundraising event in New York City, featuring prominent figures like former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, further underscores the campaign’s formidable financial position. Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign finds itself grappling not only with electoral challenges but also with the financial strain resulting from legal battles—a contrast that accentuates the disparity in financial prowess between the two campaigns.
As the election inches closer, Biden’s financial advantage emerges as a significant asset, potentially shaping the dynamics of the race and reinforcing the Democrats’ strategic positioning in key battlegrounds.