The Stakes Have Never Been Higher
Why Biden Should Step Aside for the Sake of Democracy
Last night marked the first presidential debate for the 2024 election. For those of us who cherish democracy, uphold the rule of law, and are opposed to the notion of ever electing a convicted felon and insurrectionist, it was a somber occasion. President Biden had one crucial task: to reassure Democratic and undecided voters that he is capable of running for reelection and has the stamina to be president for another four years. Unfortunately, he failed to achieve this goal.
President Biden's Performance
President Biden's performance during the debate was disappointing. His objective was clear: to demonstrate his continued capability and vigor, to convince voters that he remains the best choice for leading our nation. However, he fell short, leaving many of us concerned about his ability to endure the demands of another term.
As Joe Scarborough said on Morning Joe today, “We know that Joe Biden can govern and I will debate that issue with anyone, and I will win. I will destroy anyone that wants to debate Joe Biden’s record over the last 3 1/2 years. He can run the White House. He can run the country effectively. But can he run for president in 2024?”
I absolutely agree with this assessment. I can and will debate anyone on Joe Biden’s presidency and career in politics, and I will win on the facts. That is what made the debate so difficult to watch. Biden should have destroyed Trump on the facts, but he repeatedly missed opportunities to set the record straight and refute some of Trump’s most egregious falsehoods.
Last night, Biden failed to communicate a strong and coherent argument to the American people for his reelection. The debate was an opportunity for him to present a compelling vision for the next four years, to rally support, and to demonstrate that he has the vigor and determination to lead. Instead, his performance left many feeling uncertain about his ability to energize the electorate and carry forward the momentum needed to win in 2024.
The Need for More Than Just Being Better Than Trump
It may not be enough to simply argue that Donald Trump is worse than Joe Biden. Yes, we know that Trump is a man of terrible character, lacking morals, and showing disdain for American institutions. However, the role of a president encompasses much more than being a good person and decision-maker. Being president and campaigning for president requires the ability to inspire and provide a positive vision for the future that excites voters and motivates them to turn out on election day.
A successful campaign needs a candidate who can articulate clear and ambitious goals, who can connect with voters on an emotional level, and who can reignite the passion that brought people to the polls. Biden’s inability to do this during the debate highlights a critical gap in his candidacy. It's not just about being the better option than Trump; it's about being the inspiring leader who can mobilize a diverse coalition of voters and lead the nation towards a brighter future.
If we are to defeat a candidate as dangerous as Trump, we need a Democratic nominee who can effectively convey their vision, inspire hope, and drive voter turnout. This is why the conversation about finding a new candidate is so crucial. It’s not an attack on Biden, but a recognition of the need for a candidate who can fully meet the demands of this pivotal moment in history.
The Call for a New Candidate
The implications of Biden's lackluster debate performance are significant for his campaign and the Democratic Party as a whole. There is still time to nominate another candidate to challenge Donald Trump in November, but this will require a difficult conversation. Biden’s closest family and friends must urge him to consider stepping down for the sake of his legacy and the future of our country. It is a decision that would require immense courage and selflessness, but it may be necessary.
Campaign surrogates and Democratic leaders have been working overtime since last night, not trying to win over independents, but trying to reassure Democratic voters. This election should not be anywhere nearly as close as it is. And to the elected Democrats trying to shame and silence voters for expressing their concerns after what we all witnessed last night, I say: How will you feel the morning after the election if Biden loses? My guess is that they will blame voters rather than themselves.
“The President is an avatar for the American people. And the American people have a very high opinion of themselves… this country invented the concept of the superhero for a reason, because the American people think we’re Captain America. They think we’re strong, they think we’re robust, and they want their president to look that way.” -Joy Reid
Hillary Rodham Clinton as the Ideal Successor
In my view, the person best suited to replace Biden on the ticket is Hillary Clinton. One might assume that Vice President Kamala Harris should be the party’s nominee if Biden steps down. But Harris didn’t even make it to Iowa before dropping out of the race in 2020; and her unfavorable ratings have been even higher than Biden’s. In contrast, Clinton nearly defeated Barack Obama in the 2008 primary election, and was successful in her bid to become the party’s nominee in 2016.
Despite losing to Trump in the electoral college in 2016, Clinton won the popular vote and has the name recognition and qualifications to be the party's 2024 nominee. Hillary's extensive experience in public service, her deep understanding of both domestic and international issues, and her resilience in the face of adversity make her an ideal candidate. She would undoubtedly face fierce opposition from the far-left wing of the party, but has the capability to unite Democrats to the extent possible, and mount a formidable challenge against Trump.
The 2016 Clinton campaign was terribly mismanaged and she failed to convey to voters why she was running to be president. This could be her opportunity to finally run a campaign with a clear message without being bogged down by conspiracies about her health, use of a private email server while serving as Secretary of State, and an FBI investigation.
It’s important to remember, Hillary Clinton lost the 2016 election by about 80,000 votes in three swing-states: Michigan, Wisconsin, & Pennsylvania. A substantial number of voters in these states either voted for a third-party candidate or didn’t vote at all. President Biden won in 2020 by energizing voters in these states, and with his support I believe that Clinton could win this time around. And with a vice-presidential candidate that can engage voters like Pete Buttigeg, Clinton’s prospects of winning would be much greater.
The stakes of the 2024 election could not be higher. Upholding our democratic values and preventing a convicted felon and insurrectionist from assuming office is paramount. It is crucial for Democratic voters and party members to rally behind a candidate who can effectively challenge Trump and lead our nation forward. Hillary Rodham Clinton represents such a candidate. With her leadership, we can look to a future where democracy and the rule of law are preserved. Let us support a candidate who can bring our party together and ensure victory in November. This is not about "Biden Bashing," but about prioritizing principles and values over allegiance to one individual, reflecting the health and strength of our political party.