By Sonny Onyegbula
The relentless attack against President Joe Biden by a minority group of the U.S. Democratic Party and some donors following his apparent poor performance during the recent 90-minute presidential debate with former President Donald Trump is a self-destructive move that echoes the party’s divisive 2016 primaries. If unchecked, this could cost the Democrats the November presidential election.
This assault, seen by analysts and a disappointed majority of Democrats who support President Biden’s agenda and leadership, is considered a betrayal that undermines the democratic process.
According to Biden’s critics, at issue is his age (81), and his sluggishness, but Trump is no better at 78.
By attempting to overturn the will of the primary voters, those plotting against Biden are also threatening the very fabric of their party. They seem willing to sacrifice integrity and values for fleeting political gain.
Astonishingly, those behind this move would rather tear each other down than unite against a common opponent, thus demonstrating a lack of leadership and shortsightedness that puts personal ambition over the greater good.
In 2016, the establishment wing of the Democratic Party, led by figures like Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Donna Brazile, engaged in a similar shocking display of political manipulation, by conspiring to undermine candidate Bernie Sanders’ campaign and clear the path for Hillary Clinton’s nomination.
The subversion of the democratic process sparked widespread outrage and disillusionment among progressive voters, who felt betrayed by the party’s disregard for their voices and values.
Through tactics like debate schedule manipulation, biased media coverage, and leaked emails revealing behind-the-scenes collusion, the establishment wing successfully silenced the grassroots movement that had rallied behind Sanders’ progressive vision.
That disregard for democratic principles and the will of the people deepened distrust among many progressives, who felt the system was rigged against them.
The fallout from that unhealthy episode continues to shape the political landscape of the Democrats, with many still feeling disillusioned and disenfranchised by the experience.
The Democratic Party’s failure to address and learn from that incident has only exacerbated the party’s internal problem, leading to lingering divisions and a crisis of confidence.
The lasting impact of that incident raised the need for change and reform within the party.
However, in 2024, the Party is repeating its past mistakes, with a small group attempting to overturn President Biden’s mandate to represent the party in a crucial election in November.
Prioritising personal ambition over unity and the greater good will jeopardise the party’s and nation’s future, with widespread disappointment and frustration.
By failing to come together, the Democratic party risks handing victory to those who seek to undermine democracy and principles of justice and equality in America.
In contrast, the Republican Party has shown unwavering loyalty to Donald Trump despite his unimpressive record and political baggage.
Trump’s party has ignored his numerous transgressions, including criminal convictions, sexual assault and tax fraud cases, including defrauding the people of New York.
The disregard for accountability and moral principles is a celebration of political expediency and moral bankruptcy, that leaves many within and outside America outraged and indignant.
The Republicans’ unwillingness to hold Trump accountable for his actions demonstrates that the party prioritises political power over ethical standards. This shows their lack of respect for the rule of law, the principles of justice, and the dignity of the office of the President.
Failing to hold Trump to the same standards that they demand of his political opponents is a double standard that undermines the integrity of the political process and perpetuates a culture of corruption and impunity in the country.
The unfair targeting of Biden, a devoted public servant with a remarkable decade-long career, while Trump’s harmful policy agenda and corrupt practices are being ignored, erodes the very foundations of democracy professed by Americans.
Biden boasts an impressive record of accomplishments, including his tireless work on behalf of the American people, commitment to social justice, and steadfast leadership in times of crisis.
As noted by the New York Times recent editorial, “Trump’s unfitness to lead has been consistently on display, yet his enablers continue to disregard his destructive behaviour.”
By disregarding Trump’s harmful actions and corrupt behaviour, the Republican Party and their allies are complicit in perpetuating a culture of impunity, where accountability is sacrificed for political expediency, the paper argued, adding that disregard for the truth and public trust has far-reaching consequences.
“We must demand better from our leaders and our political parties, insisting on accountability, transparency, and a commitment to the principles of democracy that have long defined our nation,” wrote the New York Times.
Despite the obstacles, it noted that President Biden has achieved remarkable success over the last three and half years.
These include the American Rescue Plan, a comprehensive COVID-19 relief package that saved millions of lives and livelihoods. He has also signed the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a historic investment in America’s crumbling infrastructure.
“Additionally, Biden has reversed Trump’s destructive environmental policies and rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement, safeguarding our planet’s future,” the editorial added.
President Biden was equally credited with strengthening the Affordable Care Act and expanding healthcare access to millions more Americans. He has also nominated and appointed diverse, qualified judges and officials and advanced criminal justice reform and racial equity initiatives, tackling systemic racism and inequality.
President Biden has rebuilt and strengthened international relationships and alliances, restoring America’s global leadership. He has achieved historic economic growth and job creation, with record-low unemployment rates.
Finally, he has supported small businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovation, driving economic progress and development.
His sabotage by a section of his political party will only encourage Trump’s harmful agenda, threaten the well-being of the nation, and undermine the foundations of democracy in the country.
Biden enjoys a measure of public support. He and his supporters are adamant that he must remain steadfast in the face of the unwarranted onslaught and carry on the task of taking the United States through treacherous times.
There is the fear that another Trump presidency portends severe negative consequences for the United States and the world.
Trump’s critics say his policies and actions would exacerbate inequality, harm the environment, and destabilise global relations. They warn that his leadership will be a setback to America’s progress, with a legacy of division and fear.
Trump’s admiration for authoritarian leaders, disregard for NATO, and reliance on the Supreme Court also pose a significant threat to democratic values and the rule of law.
The Democratic Party should prioritise the greater good of Americans and the world and support President Biden’s continued presidency.
With Biden, there is a brighter future for a united America, democracy, justice and equality.
*Dr Sonny Onyegbula, a Legal Consultant wrote from Florida, USA
