A recent report by the Washington Examiner has brought attention to the challenges Democrats face concerning President Joe Biden’s candidacy. At 81, Biden is the oldest U.S. president, and despite his good health, concerns about his age and polling numbers are causing a stir within the Democratic Party.
Key battleground states show former President Donald Trump leading in polls against Biden, creating a divide among Democrats. Some are confident in their ability to defeat Trump, while others believe Biden is the only viable choice.
Facing a primary challenge from Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN), Biden’s candidacy is questioned by many, though strategists view this challenge as a long shot or a mistake. Complicating matters is the fact that primary ballot deadlines have passed in several states, putting any potential Democratic candidate at a disadvantage.
With no clear backup plan in place, the Democratic Party may need to select an alternative candidate at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago if Biden is unable to run. However, challenges arise as Vice President Kamala Harris, the potential successor, faces her own popularity issues.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Biden’s candidacy, he maintains a substantial lead in the Democratic primaries, with an average of 67.7%, according to FiveThirtyEight. While concerns persist, Biden’s campaign spokesman, Daniel Wessel, expresses confidence in his nomination, stating, Joe Biden will be the Democratic nominee and he will beat whichever [Make America Great Again] extremist the Republicans put forward.
