President Biden, after ending his re-election campaign and facing calls to drop out, returned to the campaign trail with a schedule of appearances on behalf of Vice President Kamala Harris. The first event took place in Pittsburgh on Labor Day, where Harris emphasized keeping U.S. Steel domestically owned and operated to support American steel workers. The campaign plan includes visits to key swing states where Biden will continue to campaign for Harris and Governor Walz, focusing on investments in manufacturing and clean energy, and strengthening alliances abroad.
The disastrous performance against former President Donald Trump in a late June debate raised concerns about Biden’s physical and mental stamina for another term in office. Calls from Democratic allies for Biden to drop out led to his departure from the 2024 race in July. However, Biden’s popularity with the party base and his history of campaigning make him a valuable asset to the Harris campaign. His recent appearances, including the Democratic National Convention, have showcased his continued support for Harris despite stepping back from running for re-election.
While Biden’s approval ratings have slightly improved since leaving the race, they remain low, and many Americans hold him accountable for rising gas and grocery prices. Harris has worked to present herself as a new leader with a different vision for the future, but Biden’s presence on the campaign trail serves as a reminder of the current administration’s policies. Despite the risks, Biden plans to continue campaigning in key states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, focusing on issues like lowering costs and supporting working-class voters.
The strategy of campaigning together with Biden and Harris aims to leverage Biden’s appeal with certain voter demographics while emphasizing Harris as the future of the party. Biden’s focus on Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, traditional Democratic strongholds in the Rust Belt, underscores the importance of winning back these states for the party. Trump campaign representatives have criticized the duo for their economic policies, claiming that they have harmed American workers while trying to maintain a positive image.
As the election approaches, Biden’s campaign schedule is expected to be robust, with a focus on securing progress for American workers through legislative action and policy implementation. The president’s dedication to supporting Harris and boosting Democratic candidates reflects his commitment to the party and the election’s outcome. Despite the challenges and criticisms, the Biden-Harris team is determined to reach voters in key battleground states and secure a victory in the upcoming election.
