On June 27, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump met in Atlanta, Ga. to have the first presidential debate for the upcoming election. The discussion ranged from topics about abortion to economics — and even golf.
Most Americans know what happened during the debate from watching it live or seeing the news the following day. But what happened after the debate? The fallout is one of the most unique and interesting series of events to unfold in American presidential history.
News Networks Respond
News panelists had the opportunity to share their opinions on the debate immediately after it happened. From CNN to FOX, several commentators shared their thoughts on the matter.
“That was painful. I love Joe Biden. I worked for Joe Biden. He didn’t do well at all,” CNN commentator Van Jones said. “I just want to speak from my heart. I love that guy. That’s a good man. He loves his country. He’s doing the best he can. But he had a test to meet tonight to restore confidence of the country and of the base and he failed to do that. And I think there’s a lot of people who want him to consider taking a different course now.”
In the following days, several other news sources began to speak out. Even the New York Times editorial board called for Biden to step down — a monumental action from the publication.
“The president appeared on Thursday night as the shadow of a great public servant. He struggled to explain what he would accomplish in a second term … More than once, he struggled to make it to the end of a sentence,” the article said.
New Replacements
Following the discussion around Biden’s poor performance, several other democratic nominees were thrown around as possible options. Kamala Harris is the obvious choice, as the much younger current vice president. As someone who is already in the White House and familiar with the staff and day-to-day business, she remains the most likely replacement. Harris has also spoken out against those suggesting Biden drop out and she continues to fervently support him.
“We will not back down,” Harris said. “We will follow our president’s lead. We will fight, and we will win. … Joe Biden has devoted his life to fighting for the people of our country. In this moment, I know all of us are ready to fight for him.”
Yet, this has not stopped speculations about other potential replacements. California Governor Gavin Newsom has been a long-time Biden supporter and his name has been mentioned, although Newsom continues to support Biden amid concerns.
Additionally, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been posting support for Biden in recent months on social media, but is now the time for her to step up? As a governor from a vital swing state, her advantage could be essential for a Democratic win. Both governors remain likely possibilities if Biden steps down.
Jean-Pierre Defends Biden
Karine Jean-Pierre has one of the most difficult jobs in the world right now as White House press secretary. Her daily briefings to the press include some of her core responsibilities. Briefing after briefing, she is bombarded with questions looming about Biden’s age and poor performance following the debate.
“After the debate, did the president get examined by a doctor, or did he get a neurological scan?” a reporter asked.
“A neurological scan? Look, what I can say is that, just to take a step back, it was a bad night. We understand that it was a bad night, and the president has spoken to this, and he understands that,” she responded.
The week before the debate, Biden spent time at Camp David to prepare and meet with advisers. When asked about his performance in an ABC exclusive interview following the debate, Biden insisted it was sickness.
“Because I was sick. I was feeling terrible,” Biden said. “Matter of fact the docs with me. I asked if they did a COVID test because they’re trying to figure out what was wrong. They did a test to see whether or not I had some infection, you know, a virus. I didn’t. I just had a really bad cold.”
The Biden Family Chips In
Joe Biden is a family man, and when it comes to making a big decision, such as dropping out, consulting with his family is essential.
On the Sunday following the debate, the Biden family met for a family getaway that was pre-scheduled. The topic of re-election was likely brought up at the gathering. His family reportedly urged him to stay in the race — what family wouldn’t want to stay in political power?
In terms of polling, the numbers are as expected. A New York Times/Siena College survey showed Trump with a 6-point lead among voters. The poll showed Trump leading against Biden at 49% to 43%, with Trump gaining three points compared to polling before the debate.
Despite the negative response from the media and negative polling, Biden remains in the race. He hasn’t lost all hope, and die-hard Biden supporters will continue to show up and support him.
Additionally, Biden’s rally in North Carolina was an improvement from his performance at the debate, where he showed a more confident and hopeful demeanor.
The next few days are vital for Biden in the White House. For him to prevail come election day, he must be on his A-game in the following days to capture back voters and regain trust. All eyes are on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
