Staff Reports
The once-untouchable political titan Joe Biden has gone from presidential podium to political punchline faster than a skateboarder in a slipstream. It wasn’t too long ago that this lifelong politician clung to power, basking in the glow of a peaceful transition—until he didn’t. At 81, Biden now struggles with the same reality that faced the great Ronald Reagan in the twilight of his political glory: it may be time to hang up the suit and let the younger generation take the reins.
Reagan’s 1988 return to Washington during a Republican National Committee fundraiser showcased a statesman barely ready to tackle the public stage. Sure, he delivered a few jabs at then-President Bill Clinton and worked the room like an old pro, but it became all too clear that the “Great Communicator” had seen better days. Nancy Reagan wisely ensured there would be no grand public speeches after that, setting a protective shield around her husband as he faced the harsh reality of Alzheimer’s. Contrast that with Biden, who may need a similar intervention from his own family before he takes another misstep on a live stage.
The real question is how long has Joe Biden been dead? pic.twitter.com/UWtpWQMLEu
— Stew Peters (@realstewpeters) July 22, 2024
Looking at Biden today, the signs of wear and tear are unmistakable. His once-legendary ability to connect with the masses has evaporated, replaced by awkward pauses and a tendency to forget the names of world leaders. For a president who’s supposed to deliver unyielding unity, he’s now more likely to create confusion than consensus. Following what was arguably one of the most lackluster debates in presidential history, Biden went the way of his Democratic predecessors and announced his gracious departure from the 2024 race amid much fanfare—but little grace.
In typical Biden fashion, he didn’t directly acknowledge that he had driven his presidency into a ditch. Instead, he waxed philosophical about democracy and honor, affectionately spouting platitudes that felt more like a high school graduation speech than an admission of political bankruptcy. The irony of invoking high-minded principles while stumbling through a rather ignoble exit wasn’t lost on conservatives, who watched with bemusement as he wrapped himself in the flag of democracy while simultaneously floundering in the political waters that he once commanded as vice president.
The inconsistencies in Biden’s rhetoric have been glaring. He preaches grandeur and unity while painting political dissenters as harbingers of doom. His attempts at bipartisanship became a bad joke when faced with the political realities of a party that thrives on division and discord. Elected officials can only bathe in the warm waters of friendship before swimming in the pool of vitriol so long. It’s the classic “do as I say, not as I do” scenario that Biden has mastered over decades in the Senate, even throwing accusations at his opponents with unprecedented audacity.
As the Democratic wolves circle for a new candidate, it’s painfully clear that Biden’s road to re-election has become more of a speedy retreat. With Kamala Harris waiting in the wings, ready to accept the torch, democracy and transparency appear less like ideals and more like an exclusive club that only caters to the chosen few. When it comes to substantiated claims of spirit and unity, the real story is how those in power perceive their interests—a tale of contradictions reflected in their every move or misspeak.
If Biden was an underdog in the race before, he’s now a relic of the past trying desperately to recapture glory that was never truly his. While Democrats may cheer the passing of the leadership baton, it’s hard to ignore that the price paid for their momentary victory may haunt them come November. For conservatives watching the spectacle unfold, it’s a vintage circus where no one—not even the Democrats themselves—seems to know what’s next.
