M10news – President Joe Biden’s first and potentially only debate against former President Donald Trump on Thursday night has ignited widespread concern within the Democratic Party, as the 81-year-old incumbent struggled with multiple gaffes fewer than four months before the general election.
In a moment that will likely dominate political discussions for weeks, Biden lost his train of thought for about nine seconds, looking down at his podium before saying, “I finally beat Medicare.” This lapse, among others, fueled ongoing concerns about his mental fitness.
Biden, who would be 86 by the end of a second term, spoke in a soft, scratchy voice, which aides attributed to a cold. The president’s performance deteriorated as he fumbled through a statement on making every person eligible for his COVID-19 initiatives, ultimately stalling mid-sentence. Trump, 78, seized the opportunity, accusing Biden of destroying Medicare by enrolling too many new beneficiaries.
The debate was critical for Biden, whose mental acuity has been scrutinized. An anonymous Democratic source described the performance as “abysmal,” expressing doubt about Biden’s ability to secure the party’s nomination at the upcoming Democratic National Convention.
Another Democratic insider acknowledged Biden’s Medicare gaffe, stating, “Biden misspoke. He saved Medicare. But now someone needs to save Biden.” A third source admitted confusion over Biden’s comments, offering no defence.
Throughout the debate, Biden made several errors, including misstating job creation numbers, exaggerating the number of American trillionaires, and incorrectly stating that his son Beau died in Iraq. In another moment, Biden suggested a “total ban” on illegal immigration despite his administration’s record of high border crossings.
Trump responded sharply to Biden’s immigration comments, mocking his rival’s unclear statements. Biden further stumbled by incorrectly claiming an endorsement from the Border Patrol, which the agency’s union quickly refuted.
Adding to the uneasy performance, Biden made an off-colour joke to supporters post-debate, thanking them and saying, “I want to go home with you,” before quickly exiting the stage. This display prompted Democratic former New York state Sen. Alessandra Biaggi to call Biden aside from the race.
CNN’s John King reported widespread panic within the Democratic Party, with strategists and officials expressing deep concern over Biden’s debate performance and its potential impact on down-ticket races.
Vice President Kamala Harris defended Biden, acknowledging a slow start but praising his overall tenure. However, her reassurances did little to quell the growing unrest among Democrats.
Republicans responded with a mix of pity and scorn. Trump declared Biden unfit for the presidency, while Rep. Jen Higgins (R-Va.) expressed heartbreak over Biden’s apparent cognitive struggles.
Polls reflect the electorate’s concerns. An ABC/Ipsos poll found 86% of prospective voters believe Biden is too old for another term, while a Siena College/New York Times poll showed 73% of registered voters shared this sentiment.
The debate touched on crucial voter issues such as inflation, abortion rights, immigration, and democracy. Biden blamed Trump for the current inflation, while Trump argued that inflation skyrocketed due to Biden’s policies.
On abortion, Trump expressed approval of the Supreme Court’s decision to allow medication abortion and supported exceptions for rape, incest, and the mother’s life. Biden criticized Trump’s role in overturning Roe v. Wade, likening it to undermining civil rights.
Biden also attacked Trump over his legal troubles, referring to his conviction on charges related to hush money payments. Trump retorted by highlighting Biden’s son Hunter’s legal issues and accusations linking Biden to foreign dealings.
In his closing statement, Trump labelled Biden an ineffective “complainer” and criticized his handling of national and international issues. He promised to restore respect and order, asserting that the nation’s current turmoil was due to Biden’s leadership.
As the debate concluded, the stark contrast between the two candidates’ performances left the political landscape more uncertain than ever.
