Former President Barack Obama’s recent endorsement of President Joe Biden’s reelection bid has sparked controversy and criticism following Biden’s lackluster performance in the first 2024 presidential debate. Obama’s remarks, posted on X (formerly Twitter), sought to rally support for Biden amidst growing concerns about his ability to lead for another term.
In his statement, Obama acknowledged Biden’s difficult debate night, attributing it to occasional setbacks in electoral battles. He emphasized the stakes of the upcoming election, framing it as a choice between Biden’s lifelong advocacy for ordinary Americans and what he characterized as Donald Trump’s self-serving agenda. Obama underscored values of truthfulness and ethical leadership, contrasting Biden’s approach with Trump’s alleged falsehoods and personal interests.
“Just to be clear: What Obama had in 2012 in the first debate against [Utah Senator Mitt] Romney was a ‘bad debate night.’ He was rusty and it showed,” Cillizza wrote, referring to the former president’s debate appearance in October 2012 where he stumbled through many answers. “That IN NO WAY compared to what we saw from Biden last night,” Cillizza added. “Biden was not rusty. He was out of it. It was a historically bad performance.”
Tim miller, a political commentator and former communications director for 2016 GOP presidential candidate Jeb bush, responded to Obama’s post, “This would be a good tweet in 41 days. Not really helpful today.”
Bill Kristol, chief of staff to former Vice President Dan Quayle and conservative political commentator, raised questions about the former president’s statement, calling it “A curious tweet.”
“1. You don’t ask President Obama for this unless you’re seeing a meltdown among Democratic elites,” Kirstol wrote. “2. There’s nothing in it particular to Biden. Obama’s criteria for the anti-Trump side of the choice he describes also fit Harris, Whitmer, Shapiro, and others.”
The debate itself, which marked Biden’s first face-off against former President Donald Trump in this election cycle, was marred by Biden’s raspy voice and numerous verbal gaffes. Trump, meanwhile, reportedly reiterated familiar falsehoods regarding Democratic policies.
Michael Tyler, the communications director for Biden’s campaign, told reporters on Friday that there were “no conversations…whatsoever” regarding plans for the president to step aside this election.
“The Democratic voters nominated Joe Biden,” Tyler added. “Joe Biden is the nominee.”
The fallout from Thursday’s debate continues to resonate within Democratic circles, as Biden’s ability to effectively challenge Trump in the upcoming election comes under scrutiny. With Obama’s endorsement stirring debate itself, the road to November remains uncertain, with Democrats navigating internal concerns while preparing for a contentious electoral battle ahead.
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