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By Rev. Donald L. Perryman, Ph.D.
The Truth Contributor
Everyone has the fire, but the champions know when to ignite the spark. – Amit Ray
The Democratic Party is trailing with the clock ticking down in the final moments of the winner-take-all 2024 Presidential race and facing a critical choice that will have a decisive impact on the outcome of the political slugfest.
President Joe Biden has led the nation with commendable policies and significant achievements throughout the past four years. However, it may be time for a “tired” Biden to consider “coming out of the game” during the contest’s waning moments in favor of a new candidate who can inject the fresh energy needed to achieve victory in this pivotal showdown between democracy and authoritarianism.
Despite the incessant narrative energized and perpetuated by a shortsighted and profit-minded media that Biden’s age and public speaking gaffes make him unfit to get the ball over the goal for an additional term, Ashton Applewhite’s insights in “This Chair Rocks” dismantle the biased stereotypes associated with aging.
Applewhite insists that older individuals often bring invaluable experience, wisdom, and resilience to their roles, countering the ageist narratives that permeate our society and have surfaced in political discourse.
U.S. Representative Maxine Waters also commented during an appearance at the Essence Festival: “Hell, I’m older than Biden, and I get up every morning, and I exercise, and I work late hours, and I take care of Black people.”
Economic advisor Jared Bernstein highlighted Biden’s 3.4 percent average annual real GDP growth compared to Trump’s 1.8 percent. Biden has added 14.3 million jobs versus Trump’s net loss of 2.7 million and maintained a lower average unemployment rate of 3.6 percent. Additionally, Biden has overseen significant reductions in Black and Hispanic unemployment, with consumer spending and business investment growing more robustly at 4.5 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively.
One wealthy local businessman also articulated this perspective well, revealing that during Democratic administrations, including Biden’s, his business thrived: “Whenever the Democrats are in office, I make money. Whenever the Republicans are in office, I don’t.” This sentiment underscores the stability and economic opportunity fostered by Biden’s policies, which have benefited businesses and workers alike.
“Prices in the grocery store are down, and the economy is up, so your retirement is up. Everything is going the way the average working person would want. This guy is the most union president we’ve ever had,” one suburban likely voter also shared.
Indeed, concerns about his age aside, Biden’s administration has achieved notable economic successes, including robust job growth, infrastructure strides, and legislative wins for the middle class.
Yet, while there is widespread agreement that age should not be a disqualifying factor, the perception of frailty can dramatically undermine voter confidence, especially in a high-stakes election against a vigorous opponent.
For all his achievements, however, criticisms about President Biden’s perceived physical vitality are reaching a crescendo. To date, 25 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives are reportedly prepared to urge Biden to withdraw from the race if he continues to show signs of frailty. Even voices from spectators on the street express concerns about Biden’s ability to campaign effectively due to his recent performance issues. “He’s just tired. Do you see how he walks? He’s toddling,” one community member noted. “Twenty percent of young people and a significant portion of Black people don’t wanna vote for Biden,” reflecting a critical gap in enthusiasm.
The Democratic Party, then, needs a spark to reignite enthusiasm and drive voter engagement. Even a slight improvement in candidate favorability could be decisive in such a tightly contested election. A new candidate “off the bench” could invigorate key voter bases, bringing fresh energy and perspectives that resonate more with younger and diverse demographics.
Biden’s situation can be likened to NFL quarterbacks who come off the bench and provide a much-needed spark to their teams. Players like Colin Kaepernick, who replaced an injured Alex Smith in the 2012 season, led the San Francisco 49ers to the Super Bowl that year. Nick Foles, who led the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl victory after coming off the bench, and Frank Reich, who orchestrated the most remarkable comeback in NFL playoff history, exemplify the power of fresh energy and new leadership.
Just as these quarterbacks stepped into challenging situations, revitalized their teams, and led them to significant victories, a new Democratic candidate could invigorate the Party and increase its chances of victory.
Vice President Kamala Harris has proven to be a capable and dedicated leader. Her deep understanding of Biden’s policies and her experience on the national stage position her as a strong potential candidate. Transitioning to Harris or another viable Democrat could ensure continuity of the administration’s accomplishments while addressing the pressing concerns about Biden’s electability.
What is certain is the Democratic Party needs a fresh spark to energize the electorate and navigate the complexities of the upcoming election.
Joe Biden has been widely acknowledged as one of the greatest U.S. presidents, ranking among the top 10 presidents of all time.
Yet, by “going to the sidelines” and giving someone else the opportunity to take it from here, Biden can ensure the continuation of his legacy through a dynamic and unified Party, poised to secure a just, equitable, and prosperous win for democracy.
Contact Rev. Donald Perryman, PhD, at drdlperryman@centerofhopebaptist.org