President Biden's poll numbers have taken a hit as doubts about his age and ability to serve a second term continue to grow. A recent Gallup poll indicates that 63 percent of Americans now believe that a third-party candidate is needed, marking the highest level of support for a third-party candidate in the past two decades.
The president's age, currently 81, has become a subject of concern, with critics pointing to his recent appearances as evidence of his increasing fragility. However, it seems that the Democratic Party has decided to support Biden regardless of these concerns. Stepping back at this stage could complicate the Democratic primary race and potentially expose divisions within the party. As a result, it appears that the Democrats are sticking with Biden as their chosen candidate.
There are also suspicions that President Biden is not the one fully in control of the government, and that his handlers are carefully managing his public appearances. It is believed that their intention is to protect him, given the potential backlash if his limitations or inconsistencies become more evident to the public. While Biden has made limited public appearances and press conferences, it is uncertain if this approach will continue throughout his presidency. Many wonder how he will fare in debates, particularly if pitted against former President Donald Trump. Biden's previous performance in debates, where he made false statements on topics such as his son Hunter accepting foreign money, raises doubts about his ability to engage effectively.
Some critics argue that the president is out of touch with the reality of the economic situation in the country. Biden recently claimed that the media is misreporting economic numbers, suggesting that people's own observations of the state of the economy are incorrect. Such remarks contribute to the perception that Biden may be out of touch with the concerns and experiences of ordinary Americans. The Biden administration's messaging has focused on promises kept, particularly regarding handling the COVID-19 pandemic and restoring the economy. However, the mounting inflation crisis and lack of tangible improvements have resulted in dismal approval ratings for the president's handling of economic and immigration issues.
These factors have raised concerns within the Democratic Party about the upcoming elections in 2024. Independent voters, constituting 85 percent of respondents in a Fox News poll, have expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of the economy. Such sentiments could potentially open the door for a third-party candidate to gain significant support. It remains to be seen whether one dominant third-party candidate or multiple independent candidates will emerge and how their presence will impact the race. Political analysts speculate that a third-party candidate could receive anywhere between 30 and 35 percent of the vote, and their entry could substantially shake up the electoral landscape.
While the potential for a third-party run exists, predictions on its impact vary. Some believe that such a scenario could weaken President Biden's chances at a second term, as progressive voters may shift their support away from him. However, others argue that a third-party candidate could erode Biden's base and inadvertently benefit his predecessor, Donald Trump. The influence of third-party dynamics will ultimately depend on how voter sentiments evolve and which candidates emerge on the political landscape.
