On 27 June 2024, in Atlanta, US President Joe Biden and former US President Donald Trump participated in the first 2024 presidential election debate at CNN Atlanta studios. A photo taken by Brian Cahn showed the two political figures engaging in a heated exchange. The Democratic Party is facing a critical decision on whether to endorse Biden without any splits or consider additional candidates.
Biden’s lackluster performance during the debate with Trump has raised concerns among Democratic officials, electoral campaign veterans, and lawmakers. Many individuals have expressed disappointment in Biden’s lack of clarity and Trump’s ability to capitalize on doubts about Biden’s age and leadership abilities. While some have floated the idea of potential replacement candidates like Jamaal Bowman, Gretchen Whitmer, or Gavin Newsom, public support for Biden remains strong leading up to the Democratic convention.
Biden, who has secured a significant number of delegates, is practically invulnerable in the nomination process unless exceptional circumstances arise. If Biden were to unexpectedly withdraw from the race, an emergency mode would be triggered at the convention. Alternatively, if the majority of delegates withdrew their support for Biden, a chaotic scenario would unfold with a potential role for superdelegates in the decision-making process.
The clock is ticking as the convention is set to begin on August 19. The uncertainty surrounding Biden’s candidacy and potential replacements has left the Democratic Party in a precarious position. The upcoming Republican convention also poses a challenge as some states have deadlines for presidential candidacies that may impede the nomination process for the Democrats. Despite the political polarization in the country, the absence of a presidential candidate is an unprecedented scenario that both parties are keen to avoid.
The Democratic Party is under pressure to quickly resolve the issue of Biden’s candidacy and solidify their support for him before the convention begins. The future of the nomination process hinges on strategic decisions and the ability to navigate unforeseen challenges in the coming weeks.