In the aftermath of the New Hampshire primaries, President Joe Biden is strategically positioning himself for a 2024 rematch against former President Donald Trump. The unexpected write-in victory in a race he didn’t formally contest has solidified Biden’s grip on the Democratic nomination. This article delves into Biden’s approach, emphasizing his eagerness for a head-to-head battle with Trump.
Biden’s Swift Reaction
President Biden wasted no time in anointing Trump as his head-on rival after Trump’s decisive victory in the New Hampshire primary. This move reflects Biden’s belief that a rematch with Trump is not only his easiest path to reelection but also a validation of his decision, at 81, to seek another four-year term.
Painting Trump as a Threat
Presidential historian Julian Zelizer notes that the Biden campaign aims to portray Trump as a genuine threat based on his past record in the Oval Office. Unlike a traditional incumbent challenging a theoretical opponent, Biden contends with someone who has been in the White House before.
Biden’s Campaign Strategy
Bruising Rematch
Biden’s campaign anticipates an even more bruising rematch of the 2020 race, largely ignoring other GOP White House aspirants. Key aides have been shifted to the campaign to oversee efforts against Trump, emphasizing a focus on a Trump-centric campaign.
Coalition Building
While Biden’s team sees Trump’s coalition as fraying, their strategy revolves around stitching together their own coalition. Issues such as abortion access, health care, and gun control are focal points, aiming to unite voters around key policy concerns.
Countering Discontent
Biden’s campaign addresses discontent and challenges, including low approval ratings and concerns about his age, by circling back to Trump. The campaign argues that Trump’s agenda is toxic and that voters aren’t buying into his rhetoric, particularly among crucial demographics.
Campaign Resilience and Future Outlook
Focusing on Tangible Achievements
A major plank of the Biden campaign strategy is to continue highlighting the president’s legislative achievements during his first term. This approach aims to connect tangible changes, such as cheaper insulin costs and infrastructure investments, to Biden himself.
Combating Concerns About Age
To counter concerns about Biden’s age, the campaign emphasizes the president’s real accomplishments. They bet on voters caring more about what Biden has done than when he was born, portraying age as secondary to tangible achievements.
Economic Approval and Voter Sentiment
Despite initial concerns about the economy, Biden’s handling of the U.S. economy is gaining approval. As inflation eases and job growth continues, voters are starting to feel more positively about Biden’s economic leadership, a crucial factor in shaping voter sentiment.
