Viewpoint: In 2020, voters sought a return to normality; the 2024 election promises a shift in focus.
In the midst of a worldwide pandemic and the chaotic presidency of Donald Trump, many individuals yearned for a semblance of normalcy. They wanted a steady and skilled leader that could restore proper government. Joe Biden stepped up to the plate by presenting himself as a reliable figure who could counter the chaos and dysfunction of the Trump era.
Fast forward four years, and the desire for a stable leader has shifted. Now, people are looking for a more assertive, forceful candidate who can take on various issues, such as the rising cost of living, climate change, and immigration.
Several polls indicate that Biden is lagging behind Trump both nationally and in crucial swing states. Trump, despite his legal troubles and the weight of his past, seems to be beating the odds. In some cases, he has made inroads into Democratic voter demographics, like Black and Latino communities, as well as younger voters.
As the summer heats up, Trump is in a strong position. Why is Biden struggling? With massive campaign investments and a legislative record that outperforms many US presidents, Biden still can't make a breakthrough.
The problem probably stems from the fact that 2024 is not the same as 2020, and Biden needs to adapt his strategy. While his method worked well in 2020, offering a traditional, conventional approach, he now needs to engage voters on an emotional and compelling level.
The 2024 election will focus on the candidates' ability to present robust, proactive leadership to tackle the multiple issues confronting the nation: high costs and interest rates straining household budgets; immigration patterns placing financial and social stress on various communities; global conflicts causing dangerous flashpoints and contentious dinner table conversations; attacks on women's reproductive rights; safety and security concerns among key voting blocs (including Black, Latino, and Jewish voters); and climate change, which continues to pummel us with reminders of its urgency.
This tumultuous period creates a need for leaders who can provide a cohesive plan for the future and the strength necessary to drive our severely divided political system toward workable solutions.
Excluding Trump, Biden has failed to achieve this goal. The reasons could be due to his age, the person Biden has always been, or another factor. Whatever the reason, it's a problem he needs to address.
At the same time, Trump has managed to make the most of his legal issues, promoting the image of an anti-hero, outsider fighting for those who support him. "I am your justice... I am your retribution," Trump often states at his rallies. And for Americans dissatisfied with the current state of affairs, Trump offers the potential to disrupt the status quo.
To reenergize Democratic voters and recapture those supporting Trump or considering abstaining from the election, Biden needs to offer a message that resonates with the current political climate, not repeat a stale pitch from 2020.
Thankfully, victory is attainable, and a total overhaul might not even be necessary. Biden may be trailing in the polls, but a minor shift in his favor in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin could pave the way for a second term.
Praising his experience and legislative accomplishments may not be enough. This line of reasoning was more suitable for 2020 or even the 2022 midterms. To start catching up, Biden needs to evoke his inner Barack Obama and emerge as a president with the gravitas and vision to employ the next four years in office to guide America into a more lively future that the next generation can inherit. Link
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In the 2024 election, candidates' opinions on handling various issues, such as high living costs and climate change, are of utmost importance to voters. Biden needs to adapt his strategy to engage voters on an emotional level, presenting a robust and proactive plan for the nation's future.
The changing political landscape in 2024 has led to a need for candidates who can present strong opinions and plans to tackle pressing issues, and Biden must adjust his approach to resonate with this new climate.
