President Joe Biden bid farewell to his party on Monday night, receiving a rousing reception for a unique reason – he is no longer the standard-bearer for the Democrats, and they are relieved that he passed the baton to someone who may have a better chance to defeat former President Donald Trump.
Despite the cheers, this moment is awkward and bittersweet for Biden, who has spent over 30 years pursuing the presidency. Throughout his numerous attempts, Biden was always a candid and compelling candidate who was unfiltered in his public appearances, which made him a favorite among reporters.
However, Biden’s recent presidency has been marked by a lack of his signature affability, as his staff appeared to overprotect and limit his interactions with the public and media. This detachment led to criticisms about his ability to lead, ultimately resulting in the belief that he will be a one-term president.
Many Democrats are expressing over-the-top affection for Biden as they lay out emotional padding for his unusual exit, as they try to soften the blow of his legacy. Despite some positive aspects of his presidency, such as minimizing intraparty rifts, Biden’s overall impact is being questioned, as he did not bring about significant change unique to his leadership.
In comparison to his Democratic predecessors, Clinton and Obama, Biden maintained a more centrist approach, prioritizing the party as a coalition over his own agenda. This approach, while safe and effective in minimizing divisions within the party, may not leave a lasting legacy that differentiates him from other Democratic presidents.
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