With the 2024 U.S. presidential election drawing near, President Joe Biden has openly expressed his concerns about the electoral atmosphere, particularly pointing to the potential for unrest stemming from remarks made by his Republican counterpart, Donald Trump. It’s shaping up to be another contentious election season, reminiscent of the last one, and Biden is not holding back on addressing the elephant in the room.
During a recent press briefing at the White House, Biden stated, "I’m confident it will be free and fair. I don’t know whether it will be peaceful." His words echo the sentiments of many political analysts who fear the heated language dominant on the campaign trail could result in violence similar to what was seen during the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021. This was the first press briefing Biden participated in since assuming office, and what he had to say was significant.
Trump, still contesting the legitimacy of the 2020 election loss, has been known for his incendiary rhetoric, which has raised alarm bells among Democrats and some Republicans alike. Biden highlighted the dangers of Trump's past behavior, stating, "The things Trump has said...when he didn’t like the outcome of the election were very dangerous." Such remarks inherently throw doubt on the trustworthiness of the election process.
Adding to the tension is Trump's running mate, Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, who during the recent vice-presidential debate, declined to affirm he would accept the election results, instead saying he and Trump were focused on the future. Biden seized on this lack of commitment, stating, "I’m concerned about what they’re going to do," indicating worries about the potential fallout should Trump lose yet again.
This scenario paints a troubling picture as Americans prepare to cast their votes. Historically, the peaceful transfer of power is considered one of the cornerstones of American democracy. Yet, the increasing hostility surrounding the election raises questions about whether this norm can be upheld.
Trump, who was impeached for inciting the insurrection, is under federal criminal investigations tied to his attempts to overturn the last election results. A recent legal filing by prosecutors paints him as someone who "resorted to crimes to try to stay in office" and details how he directed his supporters to disrupt the certification of Biden's victory. Despite these allegations, Trump continues to conduct rallies and campaign vigorously, often repeating claims of widespread electoral fraud.
Highlighting the importance of battleground states, both candidates are focusing their efforts on key regions like Georgia, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Biden knows these areas are pivotal for his victory and is rallying support among undecided voters. Meanwhile, Trump’s presence looms large, as he aims to reclaim these territories, which he previously won or narrowly lost.
Biden's concerns about violence are not unfounded. The political climate is charged with division, and recent campaigns have featured belligerent language. Analysts believe the backdrop of violence from past events, such as the storming of the Capitol, has not completely faded, and many voters are on edge. With every public appearance, both candidates are mindful of how their words could impact their following and the wider electorate.
Trying to instill hope amid these turbulent waters, Biden's focus remains on showcasing the successes of his administration. For example, unemployment numbers have significantly decreased, showing signs of economic recovery. During his briefing, he also remarked about jobs added to the economy and highlighted infrastructure projects aimed at boosting employment.
Indeed, Biden said, "The simple fact is we've gone from an economy in crisis to literally having the strongest economy in the world." But the tension surrounding the election could easily overshadow these accomplishments and impede progress moving forward.
On the campaign trail, Kamala Harris often stands shoulder to shoulder with Biden, taking on Trump directly. She has been vocal about the issues facing working-class Americans, calling Trump out on his history of union-busting and economic mismanagement. Harris has intensified her appeal to voters by focusing on their everyday struggles, illustrating how the stakes of this election are personal and pressing.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as the candidates gear up for more debates and public appearances. Each word has the potential to ignite or de-escalate the charged atmosphere. It remains to be seen if this election will abide by the traditions of peace and democracy or if it will repeat the fiery exchanges and conflicts of the previous election.
Beyond the fierce rhetoric, voters are left to ponder their role and responsibility. With Trump’s campaign promising to fight both for and against the integrity of the democratic process, it’s difficult to predict how the electoral playspace will shift as November approaches.
Political pundits and lawmakers across the spectrum are keeping their eyes peeled as the situation continues to evolve. The hope is for what has conventionally been considered the American democratic process to prevail. Yet, Biden’s public declaration of concern reveals there are significant doubts looming over the upcoming election.
If the pattern holds, the unpredictable nature of the upcoming election will once again test the resilience of the American electoral system. A fair election is Biden's priority, but whether it will be peaceful remains uncertain and deeply contested.
