Recent source polls reveal concerning numbers for President Biden's re-election prospects, with low ratings persisting, particularly in his handling of the southern border. However, the top concern among voters is the economy, with 37% prioritizing it over immigration (21%) and abortion (10%). A majority of voters perceive Biden as making America weaker, with only 36% believing he has strengthened the country, trailing behind former President Trump's 2020 figures. Additionally, just a quarter of respondents feel that Biden's policies have benefited their families, while nearly half believe the opposite.
Congressman Byron Donalds attributes Biden's polling deficit to concerns about his foreign policy jeopardizing American interests and allies. He emphasizes the desire among MAGA Republicans for a strong, enduring America, contrasting it with what they perceive as a declining nation under Democratic leadership. Senator Chris Coons urges a focus on election outcomes rather than polls, citing Democrats consistently outperforming expectations in recent contests.
Notably, a New York Times poll indicates that a significant portion of Americans view Biden as too old for the presidency, with nearly half strongly agreeing and three-quarters expressing some level of agreement. Biden's age-related gaffes, such as confusing Ukraine with Gaza during a recent meeting with Italy's Prime Minister, have raised concerns about his cognitive abilities.
Despite these challenges, President Biden is preparing for his upcoming State of the Union address while at Camp David this weekend. The White House may find solace in the fact that a majority of respondents in the source poll attribute the lack of action at the southern border more to Congress (81%) than to the president.
