Democrats Express Anger and Frustration
Special Counsel Robert Hur’s report recommending against charging President Joe Biden due to concerns about his memory and ability to present himself as an “elderly man with a poor memory” has caused anger and division among Democrats. The report, which followed an investigation into Biden’s handling of classified information, painted a scathing portrait of his “diminished faculties,” including his inability to remember important events. While Biden has vehemently denied these claims, many Democrats worry that the report will confirm existing concerns about his age and fitness for office, as shown in recent polls.
Biden’s Campaign Responds
Despite the backlash, a Biden campaign official dismissed concerns about the President’s age, stating, “Underestimate the President at your own risk.” They highlighted Biden’s experience in Washington and his ability to deliver on his legislative agenda as assets. However, polls indicate that concerns about Biden’s mental sharpness have been increasing. In an April-May 2023 ABC News poll, only 32% of Americans believed Biden had the mental sharpness to effectively serve in the White House, down from 51% during his presidential campaign in 2020.
Debate over Strategy
Leading Democrats expressed their frustration with the report’s focus on Biden’s memory, considering it beyond the scope of the investigation. Some suggested that Biden’s campaign should emphasize the contrast with former President Donald Trump, highlighting Trump’s own controversies, recent flubs, and advanced age. Others argued that the campaign should focus on Trump’s record rather than engaging in a debate about Biden’s age. Private concerns among Democrats about Biden’s age are widespread, but there is no consensus on the best response.
Biden’s Approach
In response to the report, Biden’s campaign has launched a series of emails and texts highlighting Trump’s own mix-ups to suggest a double standard. They aim to remind voters of the chaos and division that defined Trump’s presidency. Biden has continued to emphasize that Trump is a danger to democracy and world stability. However, some Democrats believe that Biden needs to be seen in more unscripted settings, such as town halls or lengthy press conferences, to demonstrate his mental fitness and address concerns directly.
Risk and Reward
While Biden has excelled in retail politics throughout his career, some observers warn that engaging in more in-person events could backfire if he makes a significant gaffe. The narrative surrounding Biden’s age has already been solidified, making any missteps more likely to receive media attention. Democrats are torn between letting Biden be himself and risking potential mispronunciations or hesitations that could further fuel concerns about his mental fitness.
Overall, the release of the special counsel’s report has ignited division within the Democratic Party and raised concerns about Biden’s age and fitness for office. The Biden campaign is grappling with how best to respond, with some advocating for a contrast with Trump and others urging more unscripted interactions to address voter concerns directly. As the 2024 election approaches, Biden’s ability to assuage concerns about his mental sharpness will be a critical factor in his campaign’s success.
