The author discusses the fear that many political candidates feel when it comes to appealing to their base and how it can lead to a misjudgment of the political landscape. They reference a New York Times article about Black pastors warning the Biden White House about potential re-election risks due to policy decisions. The author argues that the fear of the base staying home in November may be overblown, as swing voters in battleground states are more likely to make the difference in the election. They point out the need for candidates to appeal to moderate voters as well, as they can have a significant impact on the outcome of the election.
The author cites Democratic electoral history, noting that Joe Biden received high percentages of votes in several primary elections. They suggest that some of the votes that Biden lost in Michigan may come back in the end, as swing voters become more fearful of the threat posed by Trump. The author also highlights the opportunity for Biden to attract Republican voters, particularly those who supported Nikki Haley in the primaries. They argue that by reaching out to moderate voters, Biden could gain significant support in swing states.
The author criticizes Biden for not effectively reaching out to moderate voters with policy ideas or a strong campaign message. They argue that Biden’s focus on catering to his base through policies like tax increases and social program expansions has not been successful in attracting swing voters. The author suggests that a focus on fiscal restraint, balanced budgets, and moderate policies such as compassionate immigration policies could help Biden appeal to a wider range of voters.
The author discusses Biden’s handling of the Israel conflict, noting that his attempts to pander to his base by softening his support of Israel have backfired. They argue that many swing voters are strong defense supporters who would prefer a president who supports Israel unreservedly. The author suggests that Biden should find a policy that allows Israel to take action against Hamas while also ensuring the safety of civilians. They argue that by taking a stronger stance on Israel, Biden could improve his foreign policy ratings and appeal to a broader range of voters.
Overall, the author emphasizes the importance of appealing to both the base and moderate voters in order to win elections. They argue that candidates should not be solely focused on catering to their base, but should also consider the concerns and priorities of swing voters in battleground states. By striking a balance between policies that appeal to both sides of the political spectrum, candidates can increase their chances of success in the election.
