President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign faces mounting challenges as verbal slip-ups and increasing Democratic scepticism cloud his political future.
During a recent press conference, the 81-year-old president mistakenly referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as “Vice President Trump,” adding to concerns about his mental acuity.
Despite these missteps, Biden staunchly defends his candidacy, citing his extensive experience and wisdom gained over the years. However, his performance has sparked growing unease among fellow Democrats, with at least 17 members of Congress publicly urging him to withdraw from the race.
The president’s campaign woes began two weeks ago following a disappointing debate performance against Donald Trump. Since then, Biden has struggled to regain momentum, facing criticism from donors, supporters, and party members alike.
Nevertheless, Biden remains resolute, highlighting his achievements on the world stage. He touts his success in expanding NATO and rallying international support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. Additionally, he emphasizes his efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Amidst the turmoil, Biden’s campaign team is exploring contingency plans. Reports suggest they have commissioned a survey to gauge Vice President Harris’s potential as a replacement candidate. However, recent polls indicate that Harris would fare no better than Biden in a matchup against Trump.
The president acknowledges the need to “pace himself” better, admitting that his packed schedule has taken a toll. He also expresses willingness to undergo another neurological exam if recommended by his doctors.
As the 2024 election looms, Biden’s campaign strategy focuses on securing victories in key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin. They argue that winning these states, along with traditionally Democratic strongholds, would be sufficient to clinch the presidency.
While Biden remains determined to continue his re-election bid, the road ahead appears increasingly challenging. With growing doubts from within his own party and persistent concerns about his age and stamina, the president faces an uphill battle to maintain his political standing and convince voters of his fitness for another term in office.
With inputs from Reuters
