‘Something needs to happen’ – Democratic voters on replacing Biden
In the wake of President Joe Biden’s highly criticized debate performance against former president Donald Trump, Democrats nationwide are raising questions about whether he remains the ideal candidate for the party. A recent poll by CNN revealed that most voters believe the Democrats stand a better chance at retaining the White House if Biden is not the nominee. These feelings of doubt were echoed by Democratic voters the BBC spoke to, who also raised concerns about the logistics of switching candidates midway into the campaign.
The Troublesome Question That Democrats Face
Confronting this complex situation, the Democratic Party is grappling not only with what should be the next course of action but also who could potentially substitute Mr Biden. The names surfacing inside party conversations are not new and include Vice-President Kamala Harris, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
Fears, Worries and Possible Replacements
Silvia, a Democratic voter who feels the party is neglecting its constituents, expressed a desire for a fresh face to lead the ticket instead of Mr Biden. She opined: “They give us these text messages ‘Are you going to support President Biden for re-election?’ and I said ‘no’. I want someone younger, someone who has new ideas, has new ways to engage the whole country. But at the same time, what do I do now? He should step aside. I hope we get someone fresh.”
A voter named Kyle voiced concerns about the party’s apparent lack of a gameplan and dismissal of voters’ worries about Biden’s abilities. Considering a Biden step-down, he suggested the party should seriously consider floating alternative candidates. He proposed Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer as a potential replacement.
An unnamed voter viewed Biden’s run for a second term as a regrettable decision. However, he also worried about the feasibility of nominating a replacement so late in the campaign. He suggested VP Kamala Harris due to her own name recognition, adding that he would like a candidate with more support in mid-west and rust-belt states, citing Whitmer and Pritzker as options.
Another voter, Joshua, was fairly straightforward about the need for change in the Democratic ranks. “Something needs to happen,” he said, questioning Biden’s capability to beat Trump in November. He fancied California Governor Gavin Newsom as a potential alternative.
Is It Too Late To Replace Biden?
Lesli, a Democratic voter, reflected a common apprehension about the timing, suggesting it might be too late to replace Biden given the proximity of the election. She likes Kamala Harris and Pete Buttigieg but remains unsure if they could unite the party.
Expressing similar thoughts, a voter named Jessica doubted how Biden could bounce back after the debated debacle. She mentioned Whitmer, Josh Shapiro, and Newsom as potential candidates whom she believes people would be excited to vote for.
With voters expressing concerns about the party’s direction, the Democrats face a challenging task ahead. Their next move may significantly shape the upcoming elections and by consequence, the direction of the country.
