As President Joe Biden approaches his 81st birthday, concerns about his age have become a central point of discussion among Democratic donors and strategists, leading to a divide in opinions on the best approach for addressing this sensitive issue in the 2024 election.
Quentin Fulks’ Advice and Mixed Reactions
During a Democratic National Committee fundraiser, Quentin Fulks, Biden’s deputy campaign manager, responded to concerns about the president’s age by suggesting donors focus on Biden’s historic accomplishments. While this advice resonated with those valuing Biden’s experience, others argue it falls short in addressing the broader concerns.
Deep Concerns Among Donors
Anonymous interviews with over a dozen Biden donors and strategists reveal deep-seated worries that the current campaign approach isn’t effectively quelling voter fears about Biden’s age. The donors are split between those urging a more offensive strategy, emphasizing Biden’s age as a symbol of wisdom, and those calling for a spotlight on the fact that former President Donald Trump is just slightly younger at 77.
The “Grandpa Joe” Approach
Some donors advocate for a more light-hearted approach, pushing for humor about “Grandpa Joe” to humanize the president. They believe embracing Biden’s age could resonate positively with voters, emphasizing the wisdom gained through decades of experience.
Battleground Polls and Public Perception
Despite efforts to downplay concerns about Biden’s age, recent polls indicate that 70% of likely voters in battleground states consider him “too old to be an effective president.” This contrasts with Trump, who, at 77, has not faced the same level of age-related scrutiny. Democratic donors are troubled by this double standard and seek a more assertive response from the campaign.
Internal Concerns and Optics
Even within Biden’s inner circle, there are concerns about the optics of the president’s age. While allies maintain Biden’s mental fitness, there’s acknowledgment that he can at times appear frail. Strategies such as adjusting his gait on camera and opting for more comfortable shoes are discussed to address these concerns.
Calls for Offensive Strategy
Some Democrats argue that the campaign has been too dismissive of the potential impact of Biden’s age on the election. Donors advocate for showcasing Biden’s diverse cabinet as a sign of a vibrant team and a counter-narrative to age-related concerns.
Biden’s Achievements and Wisdom
Biden’s team defends his age, emphasizing his deep experience and achievements during his presidency. They argue that voters prioritize values and accomplishments over age and point to legislative victories as evidence of Biden’s ability to lead effectively.
The Double Standard and Looking Ahead
Biden’s advisers highlight a perceived double standard in the coverage of his age compared to Trump’s. They stress that voters, in the end, make decisions based on values and accomplishments, and they express confidence in neutralizing the age factor by focusing on Biden’s wisdom and experience.
In the run-up to the 2024 election, Democratic donors remain divided on the best strategy for handling concerns about President Biden’s age, highlighting the complex dynamics surrounding this pivotal issue.
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