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The Race for the US presidency

Politics - July 25, 2024

Donald Trump, returning to the political spotlight as a presidential candidate for the 2024 elections, initially attempted to present himself as a “great unifier” of America. His inaugural speech in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was seen by many as an attempt to move beyond the political and social divisions of the country. However, this attempt was short-lived, as Trump quickly resumed his characteristic style, fiercely attacking his political opponents such as Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Nancy Pelosi. He reiterated the narrative of the “stolen” 2020 election, a theme that continues to strongly resonate among his base of supporters.

Campaign Strategies

Trump’s campaign focuses on crucial issues for conservative voters: the economy, inflation, and immigration. He has proposed a 10% tariff on foreign goods, including European products, as a measure to protect American industry and stimulate domestic production. This policy found an ally in Elon Musk, whose success with Tesla could be further boosted by Trump’s promised tariffs on Chinese and European electric cars. Additionally, Trump has promised a return to fossil fuels, criticizing environmental policies that he believes are detrimental to the American economy.

Despite his combative rhetoric, Trump and his team are well aware that the outcome of the November elections is far from certain. Some delicate issues, such as abortion, the defense of the “patriots” of January 6, and the future of NATO, have been handled cautiously to avoid alienating moderate voters. Trump has also distanced himself from the “Project 2025,” a radical plan by the Heritage Foundation to expand presidential powers, recognizing the need to maintain a balance between strengthening the executive and respecting democratic institutions.

Joe Biden’s Withdrawal

Joe Biden recently announced his withdrawal from the re-election race, citing the greater good of the country and his party. This decision, though surprising, reflects a growing awareness of the limitations of his presidency, marked by numerous public gaffes and a widespread perception of inability to address contemporary challenges. Biden expressed gratitude to his supporters and endorsed Kamala Harris as his successor, seeking to ensure an orderly and united transition within the Democratic Party.

Democratic Reactions

Biden’s decision has sparked mixed reactions within the Democratic Party. While prominent figures like Bill and Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have praised Biden for his service and patriotism, many party donors have already begun considering other candidates for the vice presidency, such as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. This reflects widespread concern among Democrats about Kamala Harris’s ability to effectively lead the campaign and face a formidable opponent like Trump.

Republican Reactions

From the Republican front, the reaction was immediate and critical. Trump declared that Biden, being unable to run, should not even govern, calling him a threat to democracy. Other Republican figures have called for Biden’s immediate resignation, even suggesting the use of the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. This reaction reflects the GOP’s frustration and indignation towards a presidency perceived as failing and harmful to national interests.

The Implications of Biden’s Withdrawal

Biden’s withdrawal forces the Republican Party to recalibrate its strategy. Trump has based much of his campaign against Biden, portraying him as unreliable and unfit for the role of president. With Harris as a possible opponent, Republicans will need to adapt their approach, considering that Harris could prove to be a more energetic and prepared adversary. However, Harris’s history as a district attorney and senator offers numerous critical points that the GOP can exploit to question her competence and judgment.

Kamala Harris’s Potential

Kamala Harris has an impressive resume: daughter of civil rights activists, lawyer, former district attorney, and senator. However, her personal and professional history is not without controversy. Her positions on immigration, criminal justice, and abortion have been criticized by both the right and the left. Additionally, her performance as vice president has often been considered disappointing, and she will need to work hard to convince voters that she is an effective leader capable of addressing future challenges.

Biden’s “Patriotic” Gesture

Biden’s withdrawal has been described as a patriotic act, earning respect and appreciation from many. However, from a conservative perspective, this gesture can also be interpreted as an admission of failure and inability to govern. Republicans can use this narrative to reinforce the idea that the Democratic Party is in crisis and incapable of offering stable and competent leadership.

Future Prospects

Recent polls show that 61% of Americans wanted Biden out of the race, while Trump’s approval rating increased after the attempted assassination. However, with Harris as the candidate, Democrats might see a turnaround, attracting voters who were disillusioned with Biden’s performance. Republicans will need to work hard to maintain their advantage and present Trump as the best choice for the country’s future.

Challenges for Democrats

The main challenge for Democrats will be to unite the party and present a cohesive and convincing campaign. Harris will need to demonstrate that she can overcome criticisms of her handling of issues like immigration and abortion and convince voters that she can be an effective leader. Additionally, she will need to address criticisms of her performance as vice president and convince voters that she can do better in a more responsible role.

Challenges for Republicans

Republicans, on the other hand, will need to avoid underestimating Harris and find new weaknesses to exploit. Trump’s aggressive rhetoric might not be as effective against a younger and more dynamic candidate. The GOP will need to present a clear and convincing vision for the country’s future, based on conservative principles of limited government, economic freedom, and national security.

Conclusion

Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race represents a significant turning point in American politics. The decision forces both parties to reassess their strategies and could have profound implications for the November elections.

The blunders of the current American president have made headlines worldwide, showing the weakness of the current presidency and the impossibility of continuing for another four years with a president like this. The United States of America, whether it be a Democrat or a Republican, cannot afford a president who is unable to understand where he is and what he is doing.

While Republicans will face a different and potentially more challenging opponent, Democrats will need to unite their forces behind Kamala Harris and present a convincing vision for the country’s future. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how political dynamics will unfold and what the outcome of the presidential elections will be.

From a conservative perspective, Biden’s withdrawal is seen as an opportunity to reaffirm traditional values and promote a policy based on principles of responsibility, competence, and respect for democratic institutions. Trump’s campaign, with its emphasis on economic and national security issues, represents a strong and decisive response to current challenges, offering a clear vision for a prosperous and secure future for America.

Republicans will need to remain vigilant and determined, seizing every opportunity to demonstrate the superiority of their ideas and to convince voters that Trump is the right man to lead the country through these difficult times. With a well-thought-out strategy and a powerful message, the GOP has all the cards to achieve a decisive victory in November and to inaugurate a new era of prosperity and greatness for America. There are still several months left before the voting takes place. The impression is that these will be among the most important American elections ever.