Western Reader
President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign is facing challenges as key Senate allies show less support and donations dwindle. This situation arises amidst increasing tensions within the Democratic Party and a tough competition against former President Donald Trump.
In recent times, Biden’s campaign has expanded its activities, spending more on advertisements and staff. Financial reports reveal that Biden’s campaign and associated fundraising groups ended 2023 with over $117 million in cash reserves, despite spending more in the last quarter compared to the preceding nine months combined. Despite these efforts, Biden’s approval ratings remain low, and the campaign is struggling to make headway in critical swing states.
NBC News discusses Biden’s campaign:
“The donations have significantly decreased.”
Not a good sign. pic.com/WfpYtqPKo4
— Peter Henlein (@SwissWatchGuy) July 10, 2024
Several Democratic delegates are hesitant to fully support Biden’s candidacy. States like Minnesota and Kentucky have a considerable number of undecided delegates, reflecting dissatisfaction within the party’s base, including Muslim, Arab, progressive, and young voters who are unhappy with Biden’s stance on matters like the Middle East conflict and domestic policies. The Washington Examiner reports that these undecided delegates might use their position during the Democratic National Convention to push for alterations in Biden’s platform or leadership.
Aside from internal challenges, Biden is grappling with a financial disparity compared to Trump. Despite a decent cash position, Trump’s campaign has been buoyed by a strong base of small-scale donors. However, Trump’s campaign is burning through funds quickly, primarily due to mounting legal fees. This fiscal strain on Trump’s campaign could possibly level the playing field as the election draws nearer.
NEW: Sources close to Biden’s reelection effort indicate a significant drop in donations and officials are preparing for a substantial fundraising setback.
“The donations have significantly decreased.”
w/@jonallendc @albamonica & team https://t.co/MpjlgF5I0O
— Natasha Korecki (@natashakorecki) July 10, 2024
Adding to these challenges, some Senate Democrats in swing states are distancing themselves from Biden to enhance their chances of reelection. Vulnerable incumbents, like Senator Jon Tester of Montana, are emphasizing their autonomy from the president’s policies to appeal to a broader voter base.
This approach mirrors a broader trend among Senate Democrats in battleground states who are cautious about aligning too closely with Biden’s administration given his declining approval ratings.
Criticism has also been directed at Biden’s campaign strategy for its slow start and concerns that the lack of early groundwork could hinder efforts to rebuild his coalition. Despite recent recruitments and increased spending on media productions and airtime, the impact of the campaign in key states such as Pennsylvania and Michigan has been limited. Future Forward, a super PAC supporting Biden, plans to invest $250 million in fall advertisements, but it remains to be seen if this will be sufficient to sway voter sentiments.
As Biden prepares for what is expected to be one of the most extended and contentious general election seasons in modern history, his campaign faces the challenge of solidifying support within the Democratic Party and countering a well-funded and aggressive Republican opponent. The upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago will be a crucial moment for Biden, where undecided delegates and internal party tensions could influence the trajectory of his campaign and impact voter turnout in November.
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