Former Vice President and current President, Joe Biden, addresses doubts and defends his health and presidential record in an interview with ABC. Hosts analyze his performance and discuss potential successors. Topics include plummeting approval ratings, doubts about cognitive abilities, and speculations on Democratic vice presidential candidates.
Biden reaffirms determination to continue candidacy despite internal doubts and declining support.
Discussions emerge regarding potential replacements for Biden within the Democratic Party, including Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom.
Deep dives
Joe Biden's Determination to Continue
Joe Biden is determined to continue his candidacy despite criticism and doubts from his party and the nation. His recent interview with George Stephanopoulos on ABC News addressed concerns about his ability to defeat Donald Trump. Despite indications of declining support in polls, Biden remains resolute in his decision to stay in the race.
Challenges Faced by Joe Biden
Biden addressed shortcomings in his recent debate performance and explained health issues that impacted his presentation. Polls indicating doubts about his cognitive abilities and decreasing support further complicate his campaign. There are concerns within the Democratic Party about his electability, especially in key swing states.
Potential Replacements for Biden
Discussions have surfaced about potential replacements for Biden within the Democratic Party, with Kamala Harris being a prominent candidate for consideration. While some suggest Gretchen Whitmer as an alternative, there are debates about the impact of choosing a nominee based on identity politics. Gavin Newsom has also been mentioned as a possible replacement, with considerations about his political experience and image.
One week on from his disastrous presidential debate performance, Joe Biden has given his first interview to the American network ABC, to try and reassure the voices calling for him to stand aside. Justin and Sarah convene for an emergency episode to analyse his performance, in which the president defends his health, and presidential record. They also discuss who might replace Biden if and when he goes.
HOSTS:
• Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
• Sarah Smith, North America Editor
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• Email Americast@bbc.co.uk
• Or use #Americast
US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s new BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155
This episode was made by Purvee Pattni with Rufus Gray. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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