Jamie Spencer
The Democratic Party is facing deep frustration and reflection following Donald Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. Many within the party have turned their anger toward President Joe Biden, accusing him of mishandling his campaign decisions and ultimately contributing to the party’s defeat.
Biden’s Late Exit and Its Consequences
Democratic operatives argue that Biden’s choice to remain in the race despite clear signs of declining voter support set Harris up for failure. His late withdrawal in July, just 107 days before the election, left Harris with minimal time to craft her own platform and energize voters.
“He shouldn’t have run,” said Jim Manley, a former aide to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, emphasizing the damage done to the party. “He and his staff have done an enormous amount of damage to this country.”
Struggles on the Campaign Trail
Interviews with Democratic officials and strategists reveal that Biden’s age, doubts about his mental sharpness, and low approval ratings became liabilities. These weaknesses, coupled with the administration’s sluggish response to rising inflation, eroded public trust. Though Harris managed to generate initial excitement after taking over the campaign, she couldn’t overcome the challenges tied to Biden’s legacy.
“She ran an extraordinary campaign with a very tough hand that was handed to her,” said Mark Longabaugh, a Democratic strategist. “Biden should have stepped aside earlier.”
The Impact of Inflation and Messaging Failures
Critics within the party cite the administration’s delayed response to surging inflation as a pivotal misstep. Initially downplayed as temporary, inflation proved to be a persistent burden that overshadowed the administration’s economic achievements. This mishandling strained the Democratic brand, contributing to the swing of working-class voters and a growing number of Latino and Black voters toward Trump.
Mike Lux, a Democratic strategist, noted that while Biden had a strong record, the failure to effectively communicate it to voters was costly. “We just didn’t respond in the way that we could have and should have on policy, to an extent, but definitely on communications,” Lux said.
A Legacy in Jeopardy
Biden’s legacy, initially marked by significant legislative wins and hopes of being a “bridge” to a new generation, now risks being remembered for paving the way for Trump’s return. Despite taking a supportive role after endorsing Harris, Biden’s delayed exit constrained the party’s options and the nominee’s campaign momentum.
Internal Reflection and Future Path
Some Democrats, including Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), expressed regret that the party did not hold a primary to identify a stronger candidate earlier in the process. “It would have been better if we had had a primary, even if Harris was the eventual victor,” Moulton said.
While some acknowledge the structural challenges and economic headwinds that any Democrat might have faced in 2024, the consensus among critics is that Biden’s reluctance to step down earlier compounded the party’s difficulties.
James Zogby, a long-time Democratic National Committee member, summed up the sentiment: “Biden hung on too long, and it hurt us all.”
Marty Walsh, Biden’s former Labor secretary, said that Wednesday’s loss should be a time of reflection rather than finger-pointing, but acknowledged that the party must find new ways to resonate with voters. “It’s not a pointing fingers day. It’s a reflection day,” he said.
As the party grapples with its future and attempts to mend divisions, one message is clear: the path forward will require significant change, both in strategy and leadership.
