admin
Following the 2024 election defeat, an increasing number of Democrats have begun openly questioning how the party handled Joe Biden’s bid for reelection. Many now acknowledge that his late withdrawal from the race harmed their chances, while some admit they were too quick to dismiss concerns about his age and mental sharpness.
The book Original Sin by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson adds fuel to the fire by claiming Biden’s aides concealed the severity of his cognitive decline during the campaign. It recounts moments such as Biden not recognizing actor George Clooney and internal discussions about whether he should use a wheelchair in his second term.
Ro Khanna, a Democratic representative who previously supported Biden, expressed regret about backing the former president’s reelection. Khanna suggested the party should have allowed an open primary to provide an opportunity for other candidates to challenge Biden and help rebuild trust with the American electorate.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear echoed this view, saying Biden’s earlier exit might have given the party’s nominee more time to campaign effectively. Beshear also pointed out that Democrats needed a campaign that was willing to distinguish itself from Biden on key issues, which did not happen during the 2024 race.
Pete Buttigieg, former Transportation Secretary and Biden’s 2020 primary opponent, admitted that with hindsight, many Democrats agree Biden should not have run again. Despite this, Buttigieg emphasized that the party must now focus on preparing for future challenges rather than dwelling on past mistakes.
Biden himself has remained publicly active, defending his record and criticizing Donald Trump’s policies. Some Democrats worry that Biden’s presence in the spotlight helps Trump politically, but others believe Biden has a right to defend his legacy amid relentless attacks from the current administration.
Jaime Harrison, former Democratic National Committee Chair, called those second-guessing Biden’s campaign disloyal opportunists. He reminded critics that Biden’s age was widely known and that no one stepped up to challenge him before the election, arguing that retrospective criticism lacks credibility now.
David Axelrod, a longtime Democratic strategist, suggested Biden’s aides acted out of loyalty but admitted their decision to keep him running was irresponsible. Axelrod also criticized Biden’s family for encouraging the reelection, implying it may impact future political leadership decisions.
As Democrats prepare for the 2028 presidential primary, candidates like Illinois Governor JB Pritzker may face questions about their views on Biden’s 2024 campaign. While Pritzker defends Biden’s abilities, these discussions indicate that Biden’s tenure will remain a point of contention within the party.
Jill Biden has been one of Joe Biden’s most vocal defenders, highlighting his tireless work ethic and effectiveness as president. She dismissed critics who wrote negative accounts of his mental fitness as outsiders who didn’t see the reality inside the White House during his presidency.