World

Sanders and AOC Come to Biden’s Aid Amidst Floundering Candidacy: Bernie Sanders

Liberal lawmakers giving the president political cover are aiming to secure his support for a more progressive policy agenda.

Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Rally Behind Biden Amidst Criticism

Sanders and AOC Come to Biden’s Aid Amidst Floundering Candidacy: Bernie Sanders Amidst public calls for President Biden to step aside from his reelection bid, actor George Clooney and other Democrats, Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) found himself at the White House discussing policy strategies for Biden’s second term with Bruce Reed and Anita Dunn, two of Biden’s closest aides. Sanders advocated for Biden to rejuvenate his candidacy by focusing on a bold agenda for his first 100 days that resonates with working-class frustrations, including some of Sanders’ own favored policies, according to sources familiar with the meeting who requested anonymity.

Bernie Sanders

Just two days later, during a rally in Michigan, Biden endorsed two of Sanders’ proposals from the meeting: expanding Social Security benefits and eliminating medical debt, positioning them as priorities for “the first 100 days of my second term.” Sanders promptly expressed his approval on Twitter. While internal strife over Biden’s candidacy has divided the Democratic Party, Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) have staunchly defended Biden, offering critical support when he needed it most. In an unexpected turn, these progressive stalwarts have backed Biden even as other allies, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), have wavered. “The matter is closed,” Ocasio-Cortez asserted to reporters on Monday regarding Biden’s candidacy.

The endorsements and strategic discussions underscore a deliberate strategy: Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez believe that advancing liberal policies is not only essential for the nation but also Biden’s best chance for political revival. Sources close to both figures indicate that Ocasio-Cortez has engaged in private discussions with White House officials, advocating for more assertive government actions, particularly in housing, which is a critical issue for young voters. These efforts culminated in a direct phone call between Ocasio-Cortez and Biden last weekend, where she emphasized the importance of addressing working-class needs for Biden’s electoral success, according to insiders briefed on the call.

A senior Biden adviser downplayed the notion that Biden is altering his message in response to these appeals, noting that Biden has consistently championed populist economic policies, such as lowering prescription drug costs and taxing billionaires. However, Biden’s promise during the Michigan rally to “end” medical debt in a second term represents an expansion of previous efforts aimed at alleviating financial burdens associated with healthcare expenses. According to a report by Third Way, more than 100 million Americans collectively hold around $195 billion in medical debt.

Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez are expected to continue advocating for Biden to adopt a broader range of their policy positions, a strategy that carries inherent risks for both sides. Should Biden fail to secure reelection, any promises for a second term would become moot. A recent poll by The Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos revealed that a majority of Democrats nationwide believe Biden should withdraw from the race. Furthermore, some Democratic lawmakers facing tough reelection battles in swing districts or states, such as Sens. Jon Tester (Mont.) and Sherrod Brown (Ohio), have expressed reservations.

Critics on the left question the value of these concessions if Biden’s candidacy ultimately fails. Meanwhile, concerns persist within the electorate about Biden’s perceived liberalism, as indicated by a Gallup poll in June that suggested many voters already view him as “too liberal.” Moreover, Biden’s campaign has been overshadowed by concerns about his age and mental acuity, raising doubts about the efficacy of any economic policy proposals in shifting public opinion.

Liam Donovan, a GOP strategist, observed that the endorsements from Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez reflect a strategic calculation that alternatives to Biden within the Democratic Party may not align as closely with progressive priorities. While their support may bolster Biden’s nomination prospects, Donovan cautioned that it might not necessarily translate into reclaiming key Rust Belt states crucial for electoral victory.

For now, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez remain steadfast in their support. Since the Democrats lost control of the House two years ago amid challenges passing Biden’s ambitious Build Back Better agenda, Sanders has emphasized the need for Biden to articulate tangible economic benefits as a reason for unified Democratic governance. Both Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez argue that embracing a comprehensive liberal agenda, encompassing expanded Medicare benefits and strengthened labor rights, is pivotal in addressing voter discontent over inflation and the rising cost of living.

Ocasio-Cortez underscored this sentiment to reporters outside the Capitol, asserting, “What I think the president does need to do is continue to lean in and move further toward the working class, and be more assertive in providing an affirmative vision for this country. If we can actually provide and chart out a future that is more leaning into the needs of working people, then I think we can chart a path to win.”

Josh Shapiro vs Mark Kelly: Potential Democratic Vice Presidential Nominee?

Show More

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button
Most visited places in Hawaii Most visited places in Scotland Top 10 best places to visit in Iceland Top 10 best hotels in UK Best places to visit in UK
Celebrate Canada Day 2024 03 birds with striking green feather Apple retires many iPhones 18 Best Things to Do in Zion National Park 10 Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park USA