Who Will Win Thursday Night’s Debate: The Importance of Avoiding Chaos
Introduction:
As the anticipation builds for Thursday night’s debate, the question on everyone’s mind is who will come out on top. However, the answer may not be as straightforward as it seems. Rather than focusing solely on Joe Biden or Donald Trump, the key to victory lies in avoiding chaos and painting the opponent as the “chaos candidate” of this election cycle.
The Rejection of Excess Baggage and Drama:
For years, American voters have shown a strong aversion to candidates who carry excess baggage and drama with them. Recent examples illustrate this political truth, such as Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) losing his job due to his controversial actions in office. Additionally, in the 2022 midterms, Republican candidates associated with the Addams family lost in key races across the country. These incidents highlight the American people’s desire for stability and calm in their elected officials.
The Appeal of Trump’s Bravado in 2016:
In 2016, Donald Trump’s bravado resonated with many voters, especially when compared to the perceived lack of charm from Hillary Clinton. However, both Trump’s actions and the left’s antics have worn on the American people, leaving them yearning for a return to normalcy. This shift in sentiment creates an opportunity for Joe Biden to make a compelling case for his election as a pathway back to stability.
Trump’s Electoral Liabilities:
Trump’s post-election tantrum and the subsequent Capitol riot have left a lasting impact on his political image. The events of January 6th, coupled with his ongoing criminal prosecution and retention of documents after leaving office, are electoral liabilities that Biden can exploit. Furthermore, Trump’s recent rhetoric, including promises of “revenge” and calls to “terminate” the Constitution, provide useful ammunition for Biden. Although the likelihood of these scenarios coming to fruition is low, the constant news coverage keeps voters on edge and favors Biden’s narrative.
Biden’s Policy Choices and Trump’s Substantive Case:
While Biden may present himself as more moderate in temperament, his policy choices have had far-reaching consequences. The ongoing migration crisis, post-pandemic inflation, and mishandling of international conflicts are examples of the havoc wreaked by Biden’s decisions. Trump will have no shortage of material to work with during the debate, highlighting the detrimental impact of Biden’s policies.
The Importance of Delivery:
Aside from the content of their speeches, the candidates’ delivery and presentation play a crucial role in swaying voters. In 2020, Trump’s aggressive and domineering approach during the first debate harmed his campaign. A more restrained and disciplined approach this time around could mitigate any potential damage caused by his online rants on Truth Social. On the other hand, Biden faces the challenge of addressing concerns about his fitness for office. Demonstrating clarity and confidence in his responses can help alleviate doubts surrounding his capabilities.
Conclusion:
As Joe Biden and Donald Trump prepare for their first debate, they must recognize the importance of avoiding chaos and presenting themselves as the antidote to the tumultuous political landscape. Both candidates have their own strengths and weaknesses to navigate. Biden has the opportunity to capitalize on Trump’s electoral liabilities and present himself as a return to normalcy. Meanwhile, Trump can highlight the consequences of Biden’s policy choices. Ultimately, success lies not only in what they say but also in how they say it. By delivering clear, concise, and forceful answers, both candidates can make a compelling case for why they are uniquely suited to bring stability back to America.
