Unpopular President Receives Advice from Democratic Governors
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Democratic governors suggest President Joe Biden should increase his public visibility at ground-breaking events and ribbon-cutting ceremonies to improve his public standing before the upcoming elections. The approach has reportedly helped these governors win their own contested re-elections. Despite the Democratic Governors Association raising significant funds and various Democratic gubernatorial candidates winning races across the country, Biden’s approval ratings remain low due to public disapproval of high inflation rates and perceived lack of awareness of economic strengths.
Democratic Governors’ Strategy to Boost Biden’s Approval Rating
According to several popular Democratic governors, President Joe Biden could improve his public standing through increased visibility at events like a battery manufacturing plant opening or the commencement of bridge construction — tangible results of the Inflation Reduction Act, the bipartisan infrastructure deal, and the CHIPS and Science Act. Such participation has helped several governors enhance their public image, even amid tough reelection battles. For instance, Governor Andy Beshear successfully adopted this approach during his recent 5% victory in Kentucky. These governors believe this strategy could also bolster Biden’s standing, especially in the face of a challenging election year.
Biden’s Presence at Public Events
Biden, despite his poor poll numbers, has attended various such ceremonies, including in Kentucky. Here, he addressed the new funding that enabled improvements on the Brent Spence Bridge. “I would be doing shovels or ribbons — morning, noon, and night,” suggested New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, the outgoing Democratic Governors Association (DGA) chairman.
Democratic Governors’ Success Amid Biden’s Unpopularity
At a recent meeting in Arizona, prominent Democratic governors, some of whom have won significant elections despite Biden’s poor rating, addressed the struggles of their party leader. However, Democratic gubernatorial candidates were victorious in various major races across the country, with a few exceptions such as Georgia and Mississippi. “This is the best, most talented group of Democrats in my lifetime,” California Governor Gavin Newsom said.
Biden’s Declining Approval Rate
The DGA raised approximately $30 million in 2015 and $43 million in 2019. According to Murphy, the organization aims to raise $70 million by 2023 end. However, Biden’s approval rate remains around 37%, as indicated by 538’s analysis of national poll data, potentially predicting substantial challenges in his upcoming reelection fight.
Public Perception of Biden’s Performance
Governors at the gathering attributed Biden’s waning popularity to the public’s unawareness or lack of acknowledgment of a generally robust economy. The high rate of inflation, leading to a cost-of-living crunch, has also contributed to his disapproval. “There’s a general malaise, and I think oftentimes the natural tendency is to blame the guy at the top,” commented North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper.
Strategies for Biden’s Success in the Election
In the forthcoming election possibly featuring a rematch between Biden and former President Donald Trump, various Democratic governors offered strategies for Biden’s victory in their respective states. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly recommended steering clear of discussing Trump and focusing on authentic messages. Others, however, disagreed, contending that Biden should openly address issues such as reproductive rights — a key issue for many voters.
Public Concerns Regarding Biden’s Age
According to a survey conducted by ABC News and The Washington Post, 75% of Americans consider 81-year-old Biden to be too old to run for another term. Meanwhile, only half of the respondents felt the same way about a 77-year-old Trump. “I’d joke about it. Talk about the wisdom of Warren Buffett and countless other examples who are 15 years older than he is. I would own it,” Murphy suggested.
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