As the Republican convention commences, Democrats find themselves in a state of uncertainty and apprehension, fearing that the election may be slipping further away from President Biden. Despite no recent public calls for Mr. Biden to step down following the recent events, many within the party harbor serious doubts about his chances of securing victory. A sense of division lingers on how to navigate the current political landscape with a faltering leader.
Over the past few weeks, a series of rapid and detrimental developments have unfolded for Mr. Biden. His lackluster debate performance triggered waves of introspection among Democrats, questioning his suitability as the best candidate to prevent a second Trump administration. Concerns arose that his potential defeat could also drag down numerous congressional Democrats.
The recent assassination attempt on former President Donald J. Trump further complicated Mr. Biden’s campaign narrative, which emphasizes the immediate threat posed by Mr. Trump to American democracy. The stark imagery of Mr. Trump’s response to the attack, with his raised fist and bloodied face, added to the Democrats’ unease.
To exacerbate the somber mood within the Democratic camp, news of Judge Aileen M. Cannon dismissing the documents case against Mr. Trump in Florida on Monday morning dealt a significant blow, removing a substantial legal challenge.
“The vibe is grim,” remarked Matt Bennett, co-founder of Third Way, a Democratic think tank that has long supported Mr. Biden. “I haven’t talked to a single Democrat who is like, ‘Things are fine.’ It’s universal.”
