Biden's Debate Performance Triggers Democratic Panic
President Joe Biden's performance in the first presidential debate for the 2024 elections has caused significant unease within the Democratic Party. Biden's hoarse and stuttering delivery, along with moments of confusion, led to widespread doubts about his ability to serve another term in the White House. Prominent Democratic figures, including former Obama advisor David Axelrod, have publicly expressed concerns about Biden's capabilities.
CNN's Anderson Cooper reported a 'deep panic' among Democrats, with internal discussions on how to proceed. Despite public support from figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom, who insisted that the party remains unified behind Biden, private whispers of doubt have escalated. Biden's campaign, however, remains adamant that he will not drop out of the race.
The Potential for a Democratic Candidate Replacement
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has rules in place for replacing a candidate in the event of death, resignation, or incapacitation. However, these provisions are not designed for a situation where a candidate is unwilling to step aside. Historically, no national party has successfully replaced a presidential candidate against their will in modern times.
If Biden were to withdraw before the convention, it would trigger a fierce battle among Democrats for the nomination. The DNC's bylaws allow for a special meeting to elect new candidates if a vacancy occurs post-convention. Potential successors like Vice President Kamala Harris, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer have been mentioned, but none have a clear path to nomination without significant internal party support.
The Republican Party, meanwhile, has capitalized on Biden's performance, with figures like Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Trump's campaign managers declaring a decisive victory for Trump. In contrast, independent candidate Robert Kennedy Jr. criticized both Biden and Trump for their roles in increasing the national debt, highlighting it as an 'existential problem.'
- The first presidential debate has left many Democratic leaders and strategists scrambling to address the fallout. Biden's struggle to maintain coherence and his hoarse voice were seen as significant weaknesses, overshadowing his attempts to criticize Trump. The debate's impact was immediate, with major news outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post highlighting Biden's unstable performance.
- Despite the internal turmoil, the Democratic Party's official stance remains supportive of Biden. The DNC has yet to show any signs of initiating a process to replace him. However, the ongoing discussions and the potential for a dramatic shift in the party's approach cannot be entirely ruled out. The situation remains fluid, with the upcoming months likely to be crucial in determining the final Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election.
