As of Sunday, January 7, 2024, a report published by Express suggests that President Joe Biden is likely to decide against participating in the upcoming 2024 election. This decision is attributed to concerns about his health and a significant drop in public approval ratings. It appears that these factors have influenced the President’s choice to step back from seeking re-election for the next term.
JPMorgan strategist Michael Cemblast has made a bold prediction, including it in his ten “surprise” forecasts for the upcoming year. According to Cemblast, President Biden is expected to announce his decision to step down after Super Tuesday, a critical day in which numerous states hold primary elections and caucuses.
Cemblast, a prominent figure at JPMorgan, asserts that President Biden will cite poor health as the reason for his withdrawal and will leave the Democratic National Committee in charge of selecting his successor for the 2024 election.
Highlighting the context, Mr. Cemblast notes that President Biden faces challenges with a low approval rating, despite a roughly 10 percent increase in job creation since his inauguration. He attributes this figure to the coinciding factors of Biden’s inauguration with the rollout of COVID vaccines and the reopening of the US economy.
The strategist underscored President Biden’s declining poll numbers as a significant factor influencing his decision. A recent survey by the New York Times and Siena College in November indicated that only 37 percent of respondents trust President Biden with the economy, revealing a notable decline in public confidence.
Speculation about President Biden’s mental and physical state heightened after an incident at Valley Forge in Pennsylvania, where he appeared confused on stage. This prompted First Lady Jill Biden to intervene and guide her 81-year-old husband away.
David Axelrod, the key architect of Barack Obama’s 2008 election victory, expressed concerns about Biden’s age, stating, “I think there is one issue hanging over him. With Donald Trump on the other end, he could still win this election. But the age issue is difficult.”
Political strategist and author John B. Judis echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Biden’s perceived shortcomings in public appearances. According to Judis, Biden lacks the commanding or charming presence expected on a presidential stage, especially during elections. He noted that while voters may not be put off by Biden’s political positions or achievements, many, particularly young people, are discouraged by his perceived failure in projecting a regal persona.
As discussions about President Biden’s potential withdrawal gain traction, the Democratic National Committee faces the challenge of selecting a new candidate for the 2024 election. The convergence of health concerns and diminishing approval ratings presents a unique set of challenges for the party, sparking questions about the potential impact on their electoral prospects in the upcoming race.
