The recent debate between U.S. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump holds significant implications for the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Both candidates face unique challenges: the 81-year-old Biden is contending with concerns about his age and vitality, while the 78-year-old Trump grapples with ongoing controversies and legal issues. This debate provided a crucial platform for both candidates to address these matters and sway undecided voters.[1]
Biden emphasized his straightforwardness and extensive experience, asserting that he knows how to tell the truth and effectively perform the duties of the presidency. This focus on honesty and competence aimed to contrast his image with Trump’s contentious tenure.
Despite some stumbles in his speech, Biden’s responses concentrated on policy details and the achievements of his administration. However, his performance was marked by lapses in continuity, a muffled tone, and some answers that were difficult to follow. This raised concerns about his age and physical stamina, leading to anxiety among Democrats and criticism from the media and political opponents. The debate reinforced existing fears among some Democrats about Biden’s ability to endure the rigors of a campaign and a second term in office. His performance was labeled “disappointing” by some, and there were claims that factions within the Democratic Party were calling for his resignation, though Biden reportedly ignored these calls. Even newspapers like The New York Times ran headlines such as “He Should Withdraw His Candidacy to Serve His Country.”[2]
Trump’s debate performance was characterized by his signature confidence and energy. He portrayed himself as vigorous and ready to assume the presidency again, using Biden’s age and performance as a contrasting point. Trump’s message was clear and straightforward: by criticizing Biden’s competence, he positioned himself as a strong alternative. This resonated with his base and aimed to attract undecided voters who harbored doubts about Biden’s abilities. Despite his strong style, critics noted a lack of policy depth in Trump’s performance. His focus on attacking Biden might have overshadowed substantial policy discussions. Trump’s ongoing legal issues and past controversies remain significant obstacles. His debate performance did not adequately address these concerns, potentially failing to appeal to a broader electorate.
However, Trump’s subsequent grant of absolute immunity by the U.S. Supreme Court could significantly impact the election polls. The case, which was ongoing due to allegations of interference in the 2020 election and his role in the Capitol riot, saw the Court rule that former presidents are entitled to “absolute immunity” from prosecution for actions within their constitutional duties. The Court also ruled that former presidents do not have immunity for actions outside their special powers. The Supreme Court sent Trump’s immunity case back to the lower court, postponing the hearing to a later date.
Key figures such as Barack Obama and Mitch Landrieu have defended Biden’s performance, highlighting his honesty and policy knowledge, yet there is evident discontent within the party. Prominent Democrats like Nancy Pelosi and Kate Bedingfield have directly criticized his debate performance. Although donations to Biden’s campaign reportedly increased post-debate, polls indicate that Trump is perceived as the significant winner. Trump’s debate performance has invigorated his supporters and boosted confidence within the Republican Party.
The Republican rhetoric has now firmly centered on questioning Biden’s competence, leveraging his debate performance to reinforce this message. Both campaigns are currently focused on solidifying their bases and appealing to undecided voters. The Trump-Biden debate has been compared to the late gerontocratic leadership of the Soviet Union, emphasizing a perceived lack of “youthful politics” in the U.S.
The recent debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump has had significant impacts on the 2024 presidential election. Biden’s age and performance have sparked concerns among Democrats, while Trump’s energetic demeanor has bolstered confidence within the Republican Party. Moving forward, Biden’s campaign will need to adopt a more dynamic stance to address concerns about inadequacy. Despite ongoing legal and ethical controversies, Trump will aim to maintain his momentum. As both candidates focus on consolidating their bases and reaching undecided voters, the coming months will be critical in determining the election’s outcome.
[1] “Biden vows to fight on, rejecting calls to step aside”, BBC, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cne4z2p7nl4o, (Access Date: 02.07.2024).
[2] “To Serve His Country, President Biden Should Leave the Race”, The New York Times, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/28/opinion/biden-election-debate-trump.html, (Access Date: 02.07.2024).
