Biden's Struggle in the First Electoral Debate
The world watched closely as Joe Biden faced off against Donald Trump in the first electoral debate. At 81 years old, Biden seemed weighed down by his age, failing to project the dynamic, diverse, and democratic image of the United States that many had hoped for. In contrast, Trump, despite being only three and a half years younger, appeared more assertive, using the opportunity to reiterate his controversial stances and lies. The debate left many, including Biden's supporters and those worried about the resurgence of Trumpism, feeling discouraged.
The Path Forward for Biden and the Democrats
Political experts Luis Arroyo and Norma Bernad offer insights into how Biden and the Democrats can recover from this setback. Arroyo emphasizes the need for Biden to prepare better for future debates, leverage well-executed advertising, and rally support from volunteers and celebrities. However, he also acknowledges the significant challenge posed by Biden's age, with a CBS poll indicating that 72% of registered voters and 45% of Democratic voters believe he should not continue. Bernad highlights the importance of Biden's non-verbal communication, noting that his lack of concentration and agility during the debate undermined his message.
Despite the poor performance, both experts agree that there is still time for the Democrats to turn things around. Arroyo suggests that Biden could provide a 'last service to the nation' by proposing a substitute candidate, while Bernad stresses the need for a competitive position against Trump as soon as possible. The upcoming months will be crucial, with Biden needing to demonstrate his capability and regain the confidence of his supporters.
- White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre acknowledged Biden's rough night but expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back. She noted that it is not unusual for a sitting president to have a poor performance in the first televised debate. Jean-Pierre announced that Biden will hold a press conference during the NATO summit next week and has an interview scheduled with ABC. These appearances will be critical opportunities for Biden to address the concerns raised by his debate performance and to reassure both his supporters and the broader electorate of his leadership capabilities.
