President Joe Biden continues his stride toward securing the Democratic nomination for reelection, clinching victories in party contests held in the states of Wyoming and Alaska. Despite their modest population sizes, these wins underscore Biden’s momentum as he advances in the nomination process.
In Alaska, Democrats conducted a voice vote during their party-run preference poll at both in-person and virtual district meetings. Biden emerged victorious, garnering support from 15 pledged delegates. The decision came after Dean Phillips, the only other qualifying candidate, suspended his campaign, leaving Biden uncontested. Originally scheduled as a ranked vote election by mail, the plan was altered due to the limited candidate pool, a change approved by the Democratic National Committee.
Lindsay Kavanaugh, the executive director of the Alaska Democratic Party, emphasized the inclusivity of the process, despite the absence of alternative candidates. She clarified that while there was no option to vote against the sole candidate, participants could choose to abstain, ensuring a transparent and participatory approach.
Similarly, in Wyoming, Biden secured a win through polling, determining the allocation of the state’s 17 national delegates. The outcome of the caucuses also dictates the attendees of the state Democratic convention in Casper on June 1, where 13 national convention delegates will be selected. Notably, Wyoming’s remaining four “automatic” national delegates, including the state party leadership, are yet to pledge their support to any candidate.
These victories underscore Biden’s growing momentum within the Democratic Party as he solidifies his position as the presumptive nominee. With his nomination effectively sealed following the Georgia primary, Biden now sets his sights on the upcoming general election, where he is poised to face former President Donald Trump, the likely Republican nominee. As the electoral landscape takes shape, Biden’s campaign gathers steam, propelled by successive victories and unwavering party support.