Guest Franklin Foer and a panel of experts discuss the growing concerns about Biden's effectiveness as a leader and the possibility of him stepping aside in the 2024 election. They delve into topics such as Biden's age, electability, and the lack of diversity in politics. The challenges of connecting with voter sentiment, potential scenarios for a Biden Trump matchup, frustrations with government representation, and the analysis of Ron DeSantis are also explored.
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Quick takeaways
Joe Biden's age and potential limitations have raised concerns about his ability to effectively serve as president.
Hunter Biden's controversies have become a talking point for Republicans, reflecting negatively on Joe Biden's leadership.
The current impeachment proceedings targeting former President Trump could impact Joe Biden's reelection campaign, with potential effects on both parties.
Deep dives
Concerns about Biden's age and health
There are growing concerns about Joe Biden's age and ability to effectively serve as president, with critics pointing to his occasional verbal stumbles and his physical energy. Some worry that his age may deter Democratic voters and that the perception of him as an older, disconnected figure could hurt voter enthusiasm. However, supporters argue that his mental acuity is not a problem and that his long-standing experience and familiarity with his staff and advisors make up for any potential shortcomings.
Impact of Hunter Biden's controversies
Hunter Biden's controversies, including his business dealings and ongoing legal battles, have become a talking point for Republicans, who argue that it reflects poorly on Joe Biden's leadership and integrity. Critics claim that the presence of other elderly politicians with their own issues, such as Mitch McConnell and Dianne Feinstein, reinforces a narrative of an aging and out-of-touch political class. However, supporters contend that Hunter Biden's issues should not overshadow Joe Biden's own record and capabilities as president.
Impeachment proceedings and their impact
The current impeachment proceedings targeting former President Trump could have implications for Joe Biden's reelection campaign. While some Republicans are pushing for investigations into Hunter Biden's business connections, there is debate over the potential effects on both parties. While Republicans hope it will damage Biden's reputation, some argue that it could actually rally Democrats and energize the base. It remains to be seen how the impeachment proceedings will ultimately play out and whether they will have a significant impact on the 2024 election.
Voter dissatisfaction with the system and desire for impactful representation
Voters are increasingly frustrated with the current political system and are seeking representatives who can address their concerns on issues like crime, safety, education, and economic well-being. They want impactful representation that goes beyond mere diversity and identity politics. There is a need for politicians who can deliver on their promises and make a tangible difference in people's lives.
Generational split and challenges for the Democratic Party
There is a generational split among voters, particularly among black and Latino communities. Younger voters are showing a greater dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party as a whole, seeking more progressive candidates and expressing a dissatisfaction with the system. Democrats need to address this gap in identification and deliver on the promises made to these communities. The future of the Democratic Party lies in finding dynamic and relatable leaders who can connect with voters across a range of issues.
Biden’s poll numbers are atrocious, and in recent columns from The Washington Post to The New York Times and The National Journal, the punditocracy has started to sour on the president’s 2024 ambitions. Columnists have weighed in on why Biden could lose to Trump — and whether it’d be better for him to step aside. Is this a phase, a pipe dream or an actual crisis?
We convene an all-star panel to discuss. Our guests: Franklin Foer, staff writer for The Atlantic and author of the recently released The Last Politician, a look a Biden’s first two years in office; Astead Herndon, national political reporter for The New York Times and host of The Run-Up; Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary for the Biden administration and host of Inside with Jen Psaki on MSNBC; and Alex Thompson, national political correspondent for Axios.
Questions or comments? Email us at on@voxmedia.com or find us on social media. We’re on Instagram/Threads as @karaswisher and @nayeemaraza.