Staff Reports
News that Vice President Kamala Harris is the official Democratic presidential nominee has resurrected discussions on who might have been a more impressive challenger against Donald Trump. Strangely enough, some Democrats and pundits are wistfully dreaming about a hypothetical face-off between Trump and Michelle Obama, the former first lady whose political ambitions have proven as illusive as a unicorn. Amid this chatter is Senator Ted Cruz, who posits that an Obama duo could have posed a more significant threat to Trump than Harris does.
Cruz, a denouncer of nearly everything related to the Obama administration, nevertheless acknowledged Barack Obama’s slick communication skills that could sway undecided voters. His tongue-in-cheek expression of gratitude for the 22nd Amendment, which keeps the former president from making a repeat run, is a nod to a reality many Republicans cheer. After all, the thought of the Obamas back on the campaign trail can send shivers down the spine of many conservative Americans, who still remember the years of economic stranglehold under their reign.
Senator Cruz said that Michelle Obama would be an "incredibly formidable" candidate for the White house as polls show both parties struggling to open a lead. https://t.co/WcOjaRdUDk
— Newsweek (@Newsweek) August 25, 2024
While Cruz noted that Michelle Obama could be an immensely formidable candidate, he also pointed out her desire to enjoy the lavish, star-studded life rather than buckle down for the rigors of public office. Flitting around on private jets, swanning with the likes of Oprah and Clooney, and living the high life certainly clashes with the image of a serious political contender. Oddly enough, having a “dangerous” candidate who prefers parties over policies seems to be a running theme among top Democrat prospects.
This isn’t the first time Cruz had placed his bets on Michelle Obama as a potential threat to Trump’s chances. A few weeks back, he indicated that the Democrats might eventually cut ties with Joe Biden and pivot to someone else, with Michelle’s name coming up as a prime candidate. He was quick to point out that the discussions among Democrats about Biden’s capabilities have little to do with concern for the nation, but rather a sheer panic over losing the White House.
Currently, polling shows Harris slightly leading Trump, but considering the thin margins and the volatility of public opinion, the tide could easily turn. Trump has the edge in pivotal battleground states, suggesting that, once again, Democrats may be chasing a mirage in their hypothetical Obama resurgence. Meanwhile, as more disgruntled voters coalesce around Trump, any dreams of a Michelle Obama candidacy are dashed against the hard wall of her clear disinterest in running. Just another episode in the bizarre saga of Democrat aspirations.
