Amidst a heated Democratic primary featuring formidable opponents Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson, President Biden finds himself grappling with a substantial decline in support, sending shockwaves through the political landscape.
The latest polling data released by CNN paints a disheartening picture for President Biden’s prospects in the upcoming 2024 reelection bid, delivering what can only be described as a seismic blow to the incumbent leader.
An astounding 66% of respondents in the poll indicated that they considered Biden’s victory in the 2016 presidential election to be nothing short of a “disaster” or a “setback” for the United States.
The revelation left CNN host Jake Tapper visibly perturbed as he reacted to the survey, exclaiming, “These numbers are abysmal. Truly bad news for President Biden.”
CNN’s political director, David Challian, meticulously analyzed the survey results, unearthing significant insights. Among them, 41% of Americans viewed Biden’s triumph as a “disaster,” a figure slightly lower than the 44% who held the same sentiment about former President Trump. On the other hand, a higher percentage of Americans believed Biden’s victory to be a “setback” compared to Trump’s win (112% versus 26%). Interestingly, the proportion of voters who perceived both candidates’ victories as a “step forward” stood at an equal 27%. However, Trump enjoyed a ten-point advantage over Biden among those who regarded it as a “triumph.”
Challian also observed that while Biden’s core supporters remained relatively loyal, with 79% of Democrats expressing approval, his overall approval rating had taken a nosedive. Independents, in particular, demonstrated waning support, with a mere 26% expressing approval—a significant nine-point decline since December. In contrast, Trump enjoyed a 37% approval rating among voters.
The comparison between Biden and his Democratic primary rivals further exacerbated his challenges. Recent polls indicated that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. commanded the support of a formidable 20% of voters, with spiritual leader and former 2020 presidential contender Marianne Williamson securing 8% backing. An additional 8% of respondents had their sights set on other candidates, signaling a palpable lack of enthusiasm for Biden’s candidacy.
While 67% of Democrats and Democrat-leaning independents professed their allegiance to Biden, a meager 40% of independents identifying as Democrats echoed the sentiment. Challian highlighted Kennedy Jr.’s support as a “potential warning sign,” noting that he garnered the backing of 32% of politically engaged Americans but only 15% of loyal party adherents—a significant disparity that raised eyebrows.
Echoing the sentiments of another poll conducted by Fox News among Democratic primary voters, the results mirrored the same somber narrative. Biden secured 62% support, while Kennedy Jr. trailed with 19%, and Williamson garnered 9%.
Even within his own party, President Biden’s support appeared lackluster, raising concerns about his advanced age and ability to galvanize voters. Recent polls underscored the need for a renewed and invigorated approach to resonate with the broader electorate.
As the political landscape continued to shift and evolve, it became increasingly evident that President Biden faced an uphill battle in his pursuit of re-election. With each passing day, the challenges grew more pronounced, prompting a critical examination of strategy and messaging. The road ahead would require deft navigation and a steadfast commitment to winning back the hearts and minds of the American people.