President Joe Biden, after decades in American politics and serving as both vice president and president, now finds himself sidelined from the national conversation. According to a report by NBC News, Biden is reportedly frustrated with his diminished presence in political discourse, particularly as the focus shifts to Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, leading up to the 2024 elections. Sources close to Biden revealed that despite stepping down from the presidential race, he had hoped to remain a key figure in the narrative, particularly in areas where he feels his administration made significant contributions, like the economy.
Biden had decided to withdraw from the race in July, following a less-than-stellar performance in a CNN-hosted debate against Trump, where his age and health were focal points of criticism. His performance, coupled with a growing narrative around his age and fitness to lead, further fueled speculation about his ability to continue as president. The opposition and even some members of his own party began urging Biden not to seek re-election. Memes mocking his age-related incidents and moments of confusion circulated widely, amplifying concerns about his capability.
What appears to add to Biden’s frustration is that Harris, whom he personally chose as his running mate and eventual successor, has not been vocal enough about his accomplishments, especially concerning the economy. Biden believes his policies laid the groundwork for positive economic outcomes, but Harris’s failure to frequently credit him in her speeches has caused tension. Harris has been clear in her desire to establish her own identity as a leader, distancing herself from both Biden and Trump. During her own debate with Trump, she pointedly remarked, “Clearly, I am not Joe Biden,” signaling her focus on charting her own course.
Nevertheless, Biden remains supportive of Harris’s candidacy, understanding that her victory would solidify his legacy. While he has been frustrated by the lack of recognition, he still views Harris’s success as beneficial to both his legacy and the future of the country. Harris, in her earlier campaign stops, did often highlight Biden’s achievements, calling him one of the “most transformative presidents” in U.S. history. However, her recent pivot towards establishing her own leadership reflects a broader strategy to connect with voters as an independent voice, a move she sees as crucial to winning the presidency.
Biden’s decision to step down was not a sudden one, but rather the culmination of growing concerns about his age, health, and performance as president. Incidents, where Biden was seen losing his balance or struggling with clear communication, became fodder for political opponents and the media. This pressure reached its peak during the presidential debate, where Biden’s performance was widely criticized. A CNN poll conducted after the debate revealed that 67% of viewers believed Trump had won, further diminishing Biden’s standing. Ultimately, the mounting scrutiny and his lackluster debate showing forced Biden to make the difficult decision to exit the race and hand over the reins to Harris.
The transition has not been entirely smooth, though. While Harris has managed to lead in several polls and is putting up a competitive fight in key battleground states, the campaign has faced challenges. Harris’s campaign has had to strike a delicate balance between honoring Biden’s legacy and asserting her own vision for the country. As she continues to build her platform, Biden remains in the background, both supportive and frustrated, watching as the race unfolds without him at the center. His contributions, while significant, now seem to be overshadowed by the shifting political landscape, where the spotlight has turned to Harris and Trump, and where Biden’s influence is fading.
