According to President Joe Biden and his staff, the US economy is doing well. But many Americans, especially voters of colour and young voters, disagree with his assessment. They are not convinced by the economic indicators that Biden cites, such as GDP growth, unemployment rate, or stock market performance. They are more concerned about the affordability of their daily lives, such as the prices of food, housing, transportation, and health care. They also feel that their wages are not keeping up with the rising costs of living, and that their financial situation has deteriorated since Biden took office.
These sentiments are reflected in the opinion polls, which show that voters trust the Republicans more than the Democrats when it comes to managing the economy. According to a recent survey reported by Fox Business, half of Americans say they are worse off financially than they were three years ago, during the last presidential election. Four in 10 Americans say their finances have worsened since Biden became president, the highest proportion in ABC News/Washington Post polls dating back 37 years. Only 16 percent say they are better off under Biden, compared to 25 percent who said they were better off under former President Donald Trump. After Trump’s first year in office, only 13 percent felt worse off financially, while 35 percent felt that way under Biden a year ago.
Biden’s Ineptitude- Trump’s Boon
Trump, who is eyeing a comeback in 2024, has seized on these economic anxieties and promised to make radical changes in the country’s tax, market, and foreign trade policies. He claims that his agenda will revive the economy and restore the American dream for millions of people who feel left behind by the current system. He also appeals to the fears and frustrations that many Americans have about the social and political divisions in the country, the rise of crime and violence, and the influx of migrants crossing the US-Mexico border illegally. He advocates for an America First policy that would withdraw the US from foreign wars and conflicts, and focus on domestic issues and interests.
Many voters are disillusioned and dissatisfied with the status quo, and feel that the traditional pillars of American life, such as homeownership, a decent wage, and a college education, are becoming increasingly inaccessible for them. They also worry about the future of the country and their children, as they face the challenges of climate change, racial injustice, and global competition.
Polls show that voters are particularly unhappy with Biden’s handling of the Israel-Palestine conflict, which has sparked widespread criticism and protests from human rights groups and activists. Biden has maintained a staunch and unwavering support for Israel, even as it faces accusations of committing ethnic cleansing and war crimes against the Palestinians. This stance has alienated many young voters, who are more sympathetic to the Palestinian cause and more critical of the US-Israel alliance.
Trump adeptly grasps human emotions and the concerns of US citizens. He positions himself as an outsider and disruptor capable of addressing the issues created or overlooked by the political establishment. Portraying the nation in a state of chaos and crisis, he presents himself as the sole figure capable of restoring order and greatness. This assertion is not unfounded, considering the challenging conditions of the US economy and crime rate.
Trump’s Political Base Remains Strong
Despite the numerous legal challenges during Trump’s presidency and post-presidency, he still enjoys a loyal base of supporters who believe he is unfairly targeted by his political enemies. A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted earlier this year revealed that more than 50% of Republicans would not hesitate to vote for Trump again, even if he were found guilty of a crime.
Trump has also defended his record as president, claiming that he successfully managed the affairs of the nation for four years. He can point to his achievements in areas such as the economy, trade, immigration, and foreign policy, and argue that he kept the government running smoothly and efficiently. He can also claim that during his tenure, America enjoyed a rare period of peace.
Biden also has to deal with the challenges of two ongoing conflicts abroad, which have polarized the American public. Trump has capitalized on his isolationist and nationalist stance, appealing to voters who are wary of further US involvement in Ukraine or in the Israel-Hamas war. Biden, on the other hand, has adopted a more conventional and interventionist approach, seeking to uphold the US leadership and influence in the world.
Overall, the upcoming US election will be one that shows the cracks that keep widening in the American society. As the nation’s population becomes increasingly divided along economic, social and political lines; the upcoming election will set the stage for next four years of US policy. The world will be watching as America decides if they want a president that is increasingly interventionalist, or a president that wishes to focus closer at home.
