Even though Biden shouldn’t run for reelection if he wants to stop a Republican from moving into the White House, I will explain the reasons further down in this article, it needs to be said that Biden did and is still doing a good job. Throughout his legislation period, he was challenged with big problems, such as Russia’s attack on Ukraine, the impacts of climate change, and now the escalated conflict between Israel and Palestine, and these are just three of the most challenging issues he has to deal with.
Biden’s problem
Even though Biden managed to improve the lives of Americans in many ways, he doesn’t get much appreciation for it. He lowered the costs of everyday living for American families, the unemployment rate is at an all-time low, he signed an immense infrastructure bill, and took the first meaningful steps against gun violence in over 30 years.
So, what speaks against a reelection?
Trump, polarised the country during his presidency in a way that is still very much affecting the political landscape in the USA. He has an extremely loyal fanbase which would do everything to make him succeed. We have all seen how dangerous that can be during the capitol attacks on January 6, 2021.
Another often-discussed aspect is Biden’s age. Even though he is just a few years older than Trump, his age seems to be way more relevant. We all have seen incidents that speak against Biden’s ability to run for a second term, but when it comes to psychological ability, Trump shouldn’t be running either.
But the main reason why Biden has a hard time keeping up in the polls is that conservative and right-wing parties, everywhere around the world and the US is no exception, create problems where there are none, or offer easy solutions for complex issues. Everybody who tries to do some quality politics will most likely be run over by their opponent. History will judge about such campaigns, but what damage will be caused by then?
Republicans
Leaving Trump aside for one second, we find a second possible candidate for the Republicans in Ron DeSantis. The governor of Florida is also a very polarising character in US politics.
He has in some cases even more extreme views. His very conservative opinions, his fight against Disney, his book bans, and his fight against the “wokeness” (everything that isn’t his opinion), are just a few of his very controversial political actions.
What makes him more dangerous than Trump, is that he is more intelligent and sells himself as a more trustworthy and reliable person.
If DeSantis runs against Biden, I am sure DeSantis will win. On the other side if Trump runs against Biden we will most likely see another close race.
The perfect candidate for the Democrats
I am sure there are many better-fitting candidates for the Democrats than Biden, but as long as Biden wants to run for a second term, they won’t step into the ring.
Let’s be honest, the USA is not ready for a woman or a non-white (or orange) candidate, in the next election. You don’t need to be a political expert to see that increasing sexism and racism would prevent them from succeeding. As much of a step back as it is, anyone except a white man would fail miserably against the Republicans.
In the case of Biden, we see that being a white man isn’t enough. His high age is a problem as well. That’s why I believe that the only Democratic candidate who could defeat Trump or even DeSantis needs to be a motivated, energetic, middle-aged white man.
From my outsider’s point of view, I see the USA in a difficult situation, and with the USA most likely our whole planet. The only one who can mix the cards new is Biden at the moment. Will he give other Democrats the chance to win the race or will he really enter a very risky second election, that could dramatically shape the future of us all?
Exciting months lie ahead of us ….