Biden’s allies are begging him to fight harder. The State of the Union is his chance to do so.
A handful of Democratic governors made their way through a gaggle of their colleagues last month to tell President Joe Biden directly what they’ve been stressing behind the scenes: He needs to be fighting harder.
Democratic Governors Encourage President Biden to Show More Fight
A group of Democratic governors recently met with President Joe Biden to express their concerns about his perceived lack of fighting spirit. They urged him to display more of the fire and passion he had shown during a closed-door meeting with governors, where Montana Governor Greg Gianforte handed him a letter demanding action on the southern border. Although Biden smiled in response to their request, the governors want to see that passion translate into public action. They believe it is important for Biden to project strength and toughness, dispelling doubts about his ability to take on challenges. The governors also believe that Biden's willingness to confront his opponents would counter concerns about his age.
Democrats Call for Biden to Show More Passion and Pride in Public
Many prominent Democrats privately express their desire to see President Biden demonstrate more passion and pride in public. They believe that while Biden's private conversations may reveal a different side, it is essential for him to project that same fiery attitude to the public. They argue that political theatrics are crucial at a time when exhaustion with the political process is widespread and concerns about a potential second Trump administration loom large. Democrats want Biden's efforts in standing up for democracy to extend beyond private conversations or occasional digs during late-night shows. They believe that a forceful speech or occasional displays of toughness are not enough to maintain public confidence in his leadership.
Importance of Biden's Speech and Pressure to Perform
President Biden and his team are acutely aware of the significance of his upcoming speech. It represents a crucial opportunity to captivate a national audience and shape public perception. Every word, stutter, and shuffle will be scrutinized, and the drafting process has been meticulous. Biden's advisers are determined not to leave his performance up to improvisation or hope for a smooth off-the-cuff response. While some are skeptical about whether the State of the Union address is the right platform for Biden to showcase his full force, there is a consensus that he needs to shed any reservations and come out with gloves off afterward.
Balancing Act for Biden: Fighting Harder vs. Appealing to Moderates
Biden's campaign aides have acknowledged the need for him to step up and demonstrate strength. They recognize that people perceive leaders as strong when they are willing to engage in fights. However, the challenge lies in finding the right balance. Biden is navigating a delicate political landscape, trying to pass important legislation while appealing to moderate voters and Republicans who may have been turned off by the Trump era. While some Democrats are frustrated with Biden's measured approach and scripted statements, his team believes there is still ample time to ramp up his outrage and toughness without being in a constant state of alarm. They believe that Biden should strategically time his arguments for maximum impact when the most voters are paying attention.
Biden's Tactical Decision-Making and Limitations
Biden's habit of revealing his thoughts and comments at fundraisers serves both personal and tactical purposes. It allows him to express his views in a friendly environment while maintaining some plausible distance. However, there are limitations to how much he can say on certain issues. For example, Biden must be cautious when discussing Trump's legal troubles and the situation in the Middle East, as his words are closely scrutinized by international leaders. Biden's campaign has also employed digital strategies, such as recording his reactions to Trump's comments for social media, to show his exasperation and highlight key issues. Overall, Biden's team understands the need to carefully manage his time and messaging, considering his responsibilities as the president and the long campaign ahead.