Biden's Speech Dynamics

Two distinct speeches from Joe Biden during the convention exemplify the duality of his presentation, merging his intentions with the expectations of the moment. One was a deeply emotional farewell that resonated with the audience as he honored Kamala Harris, while the other reflected a speech he had prepared previously, requiring a more robust connection to current events. Observers noted that the speeches highlighted Biden's struggles with pacing; the prime-time delivery extended late into the night, diminishing the impact of his intended message. In an era where speeches are carefully timed for television, this mismanagement signaled a need for greater ruthlessness when allocating speaking time.