Democrats Angered by Characterization of President Biden
Special counsel Robert Hur’s report recommending against charging President Joe Biden because of his “elderly man with a poor memory” united many Democrats in anger at Hur’s characterization and sparked division in the party over how Biden’s reelection campaign should respond.
Concerns Over Biden’s Age and Fitness for Office
Hur’s report, released after a lengthy investigation into Biden’s handling of classified information, painted a scathing portrait of the president’s “diminished faculties.” Biden has forcefully contested these accounts, but polls show that concerns over his age and fitness for office are already notable sore spots for him.
An ABC News poll from April-May 2023 found that only 32% of Americans believed Biden had the mental sharpness to serve effectively in the White House, down from 51% during the 2020 campaign.
Democrats Divided on Response
Leading Democrats publicly expressed their anger and criticized Hur’s report, arguing that his language and focus on Biden’s memory went beyond the scope of the investigation. Some Democrats believe that Biden’s campaign should double down on the contrast with former President Donald Trump, highlighting his own controversies and advanced age.
Biden’s Strategy: Highlight Trump’s Flubs and Attack on Democracy
In response, Biden’s campaign has been highlighting Trump’s own mix-ups and attacks on democracy to suggest that he is being held to a lower standard. The campaign has emphasized the dangers of allowing Trump back into the Oval Office and has underscored Biden’s commitment to democracy and world stability.
Poll Numbers Indicate Need for Action
Poll numbers on Biden’s age and fitness for office indicate a need for a more concerted effort from his campaign. Some Democrats suggest putting the president in more impromptu settings, such as town halls or lengthy press conferences, to demonstrate his mental fitness and reassure voters.
Risk and Reward of In-Person Events
While in-person events could energize voters, there is also a risk of one gaffe overshadowing the positive impact. Critics argue that with the narrative about Biden’s age already firmly established, any misstep could be amplified by the media.
Biden’s strategy moving forward will be crucial in addressing concerns about his age and fitness for office while effectively contrasting himself with Trump.