The Bidens attempt to rally and rejuvenate the Democratic Party, but does anyone still listen?
Quick Takes
- Joe and Jill Biden aim to aid the Democratic Party’s fundraising and rebuilding efforts.
- Many Democrats view Biden as a figure of the past, struggling to connect with modern party dynamics.
- Efforts include strategic meetings and an emphasis on re-establishing the party’s relevance.
- Party popularity suffers, with only 27% of voters holding positive views.
The Biden Initiative
Former President Joe Biden and former first lady Jill Biden have embarked on a mission to support the Democratic Party’s fundraising and rebuilding efforts. They are positioning themselves as potential catalysts for change and renewed energy within the party. Biden met with Democratic National Committee chairman Ken Martin to offer his involvement as the party struggles with declining popularity. The effort reflects Biden’s eagerness to contribute meaningfully to the party’s future, despite skepticism from within party ranks.
Many Democrats are hesitant about Biden’s return, viewing him as a symbol of the party’s past and associating him with the 2024 defeat. An NBC News poll highlighted the party’s slipping popularity, showing only 27% of registered voters hold a positive view. Skepticism surrounding Biden is compounded by perceptions of him as a relic, with a reputation for being incoherent and disconnected from the party’s modern communication style.
Challenges and Strategies
Jill Biden is prepared to campaign and raise funds for Democrats, underscoring her responsibilities to the party. Their strategy includes writing memoirs, viewed as a way to sustain their political legacy and narrative. Yet, despite these efforts, Biden faces a dichotomy within the Democratic Party. Some insiders see him as an asset, while others prefer new leadership. Biden remains defiant about his previous campaign decisions, dismissing the notion that Trump’s victory was due to his presence in the race. “She likes power. She wants to stay. She wants some sense of revenge,” said Douglas Brinkley, a historian, on Jill Biden.
The Bidens, particularly Jill, focus on providing reassurance amidst political turmoil. However, the Bidens’ plan has met skepticism, with worries that their attempts may not yield tangible outcomes. Divisions grow as some within the party, including the Obamas, reportedly forced Biden off the Democratic ticket. This sparked frustration from the Bidens and highlighted internal party conflicts.
Future Prospects
Joe Biden is eager to return to politics to help Democrats revitalize their brand, despite facing significant challenges in connecting with a younger, evolving Democratic base. He and his wife have actively reached out to Democratic leaders to offer their assistance in regaining the party’s viability. Yet, addressing the disconnect within the party and broader public opinion remains a daunting task.
President Donald Trump frequently uses Biden as a political foil, amplifying the discussion around the former president. Meanwhile, Biden chooses to let surrogates handle responses to Trump’s attacks, avoiding direct confrontations. Despite these challenges, the Bidens continue their quest to reshape their political legacy, albeit with uncertain prospects.
Sources
1. Watch Out, Medicare: The Bidens Plot Their Comeback
