Why Biden’s Still In: Insights From Democratic Insider Dmitri Mehlhorn
Introduction:
Dmitri Mehlhorn, a prominent Democratic funder and operative, has been a staunch supporter of Joe Biden as the best candidate to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election. In this interview with Ryan Grim on Deconstructed, Mehlhorn shares his insights on why he remains committed to Biden’s candidacy, despite growing calls for him to step aside.
The Appeal of Joe Biden:
Mehlhorn explains that his support for Biden stems from the belief that he is the most electable candidate. While some may argue that Biden’s age and gaffes make him vulnerable, Mehlhorn contends that Biden’s long political career and moderate stance appeal to a broad range of voters. He points out that Biden has consistently performed well in polls and has a track record of winning over swing voters.
The Importance of Unity:
According to Mehlhorn, another reason for his unwavering support for Biden is the need for unity within the Democratic Party. He acknowledges that there are more progressive candidates who have passionate followings, but he believes that Biden’s ability to unite different factions is crucial for defeating Trump. Mehlhorn emphasizes that a divided party will only weaken their chances in the general election.
Addressing Concerns about Biden’s Past:
Grim raises concerns about Biden’s past positions and policies, particularly regarding criminal justice and the Iraq War. Mehlhorn acknowledges that Biden has made mistakes in the past, but he argues that Biden has evolved and learned from those experiences. He highlights Biden’s role in the Obama administration, where he played a key part in advancing progressive policies such as the Affordable Care Act.
The Electability Factor:
Mehlhorn emphasizes that electability should be a top priority for Democrats. He cites recent studies and data showing that swing voters prioritize a candidate’s ability to defeat Trump over their policy positions. Mehlhorn believes that Biden’s moderate stance and appeal to a wide range of voters make him the best choice to win in November.
The Role of Funders and Operatives:
As a Democratic funder and operative, Mehlhorn sheds light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the party. He explains that funders like himself play a crucial role in supporting candidates and shaping the party’s direction. While acknowledging the influence of money in politics, Mehlhorn emphasizes that funders are not solely motivated by self-interest. He argues that they genuinely want to see the party succeed and believe that Biden is the candidate with the best chance of achieving that goal.
Conclusion:
In this interview, Dmitri Mehlhorn provides valuable insights into why he remains committed to Joe Biden’s candidacy. He highlights Biden’s electability, his ability to unite the party, and his past experience in advancing progressive policies. Mehlhorn also sheds light on the role of funders and operatives in shaping the Democratic Party. Ultimately, he believes that Biden is the best choice to defeat Trump in November and bring about positive change for the country.
