In a rare news conference held before leaving Japan, President Biden faced tough questions regarding the debt-ceiling showdown and delivered a surprising response. Biden claimed that some MAGA Republicans would welcome a government default because it would tarnish his presidency and decrease his chances of being reelected.
While the strategic value of this approach is debatable, what is undeniable is that Biden showcased his ability to handle the media and discuss important issues, including his separate appearance with Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Though Biden sometimes stumbles during these Q-and-A sessions, they remain crucial and highly anticipated. People wonder if he will struggle with names, experience memory lapses, or make statements that need clarification.
The concern over Biden’s mental acuity and physical stamina is growing, especially among liberals who fear the potential of a second Trump presidency in 2024.
One influential voice on the left, Ruy Teixeira, known for his analytical and truthful insights, expresses doubts about Biden’s strength as a candidate. Polling consistently places Biden in the low 40s, with little sign of improvement.
Teixeira believes that Democrats are underestimating Trump, as he still holds a slim lead in the Real Clear Politics average. Despite Trump’s legal issues and recent setbacks, Biden should be leading by a wider margin.
Teixeira argues that Biden’s failure to draw a line against the cultural extremists within his own party, particularly on issues like crime, illegal immigration, and controversial school curricula, will hinder his candidacy.
National Review Editor Rich Lowry warns that Biden is one misstep away from electoral disaster. While his initial metaphorical comparison between Biden’s stumble and U.S. decrepitude may not hold water, Lowry highlights the potential damage that a serious fall or health issue could cause to Biden’s image and campaign.
He suggests that Biden’s decision to take on the physically and mentally demanding task of running for president at his age could be seen as foolhardy rather than commendable.
Despite these concerns, there is a glimmer of hope for Biden. A recent focus group conducted by The Washington Post revealed that, although participants expressed negative emotions towards Biden, including confusion, concern, and worry, nine out of fifteen individuals said they would still vote for him. Their primary motivation? Fear of another Trump presidency. These participants viewed the choice between Trump and Biden as akin to selecting between a demolition derby car and an old clunker for a cross-country trip—neither option was particularly appealing, but the prospect of Trump in the White House again was deemed more alarming.
Ultimately, the 2024 race may boil down to Biden’s advanced age versus Trump’s history of investigations and accusations. While the current sentiment may not inspire enthusiasm, it is important to remember that election outcomes cannot be predicted based solely on the opinions of fifteen individuals. The dynamics of race can change significantly over time, and the ultimate decision will rest with the American people.
Source Fox News