Title: The Democratic National Convention: A Biden Coronation in the Face of Cognitive Decline Concerns
Introduction:
For years, rumors about President Joe Biden’s cognitive decline have circulated behind closed doors. Recently, the Wall Street Journal raised concerns about his health, leading to a backlash from Democrats who dismissed it as a hit piece. However, after his performance in the first presidential debate, it became impossible for party operatives to ignore the issue. Now, as Democrats grapple with the fallout, the focus shifts to how they will address Biden’s candidacy crisis at the Democratic National Convention in August.
The DNC’s Efforts to Suppress Concerns:
Efforts to raise concerns about Biden’s health within the DNC have been consistently shut down. Dissenting voices have faced pushback and even removal from the committee. This suppression of discussion has been ongoing for years, leaving many party members aware of the issue but unable to address it openly.
Biden’s Determination to Continue:
Despite the mounting concerns, Biden’s campaign made it clear that he has no intention of stepping down. Campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt emphasized that Biden would not back down and highlighted the campaign’s successful fundraising efforts after the debate. The campaign’s communication director, Michael Tyler, also reaffirmed Biden’s status as the nominee.
The DNC’s Unlikely Course Change:
Current and former delegates believe that the DNC is unlikely to change its course. The convention is expected to follow established processes that have sidelined reform efforts and marginalized the party’s progressive wing. The decision to move the presidential nomination vote online weeks before the in-person convention in Chicago further limits the possibility of an open convention or a nomination process for another candidate.
The Appetite for Change:
While some delegates express frustration with the lack of democratic decision-making within the party, they acknowledge that significant change is unlikely. However, there is an increasing appetite for disruption and a potential rise of a third party. This combustion factor reflects a willingness to challenge the status quo and push for genuine reform.
The Convention’s Transformation:
Delegates note that the Democratic National Convention has evolved into a highly choreographed event, far removed from the action-packed conventions of the past. Political maneuvering and opposing viewpoints are limited, and delegates are carefully chosen to align with the party machinery. The convention has become more focused on maintaining control than winning the November election.
Biden’s Battle Against Age-Related Deterioration:
Days before the debate, the New York Times published a story about President Biden battling “misleading videos” that showcased his age-related deterioration. The debate itself only intensified concerns, leading to discussions within the campaign about how to mitigate the damage. However, by the next day, the party apparatus returned to its normal messaging.
Conclusion:
As the Democratic National Convention approaches, it appears increasingly likely that it will be a stage-managed coronation for Joe Biden. Despite concerns about his cognitive decline, the DNC is unlikely to change course or allow an open nomination process. The convention’s transformation into a controlled event reflects the party’s focus on maintaining control rather than embracing genuine democratic decision-making. While some delegates express frustration, significant change seems unlikely, leaving many questioning the party’s commitment to winning the November election.
