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Primary Concerns: Joe Biden's Refusal to Debate is Killing Democracy

By denying Kennedy and Williamson the opportunity to articulate their ideas in a public forum, the Democratic Party risks appearing overtly self-serving and dismissive of democratic norms.

By Paige HollowayPublished 11 months ago 6 min read
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Primary Concerns: Joe Biden's Refusal to Debate is Killing Democracy
Photo by ActionVance on Unsplash

As the 2024 election cycle commences, the Democratic Party is confronted with a conundrum — should they rally behind the incumbent President Biden, despite his evident waning popularity, or should they entertain alternative candidates who might invigorate the base and appeal to a wider demographic?

With President Biden set to announce his bid for re-election, the DNC has opted not to hold primary debates, despite the presence of two official challengers: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson. This move has been met with outrage by many who argue that it is not only inherently undemocratic but also an unforgivable act of voter suppression and censorship in order to uphold the DNC’s status quo. This decision bears a striking resemblance to the 2016 Democratic primaries, where Bernie Sanders faced similar obstacles against Hillary Clinton.

In this article, we shall dissect the current political atmosphere, explore the potential Democratic challengers, and scrutinize the implications of not holding primary debates, ultimately proffering some recommendations for the Democratic Party as they march forward.

Political Déjà vu: A Biden-Trump Rerun?

Recent polling data suggests a palpable lack of enthusiasm for a Biden-Trump rematch amongst the American electorate. A mere 41 percent of respondents in an NBC News poll approve of Biden’s job performance, with an astounding 70 percent expressing disinterest in his re-election bid. Conversely, an AP-University of Chicago poll discloses that 70 percent of voters and 44 percent of Republicans are similarly averse to the idea of Trump running for re-election. In light of these figures, it becomes imperative for the Democratic Party to evaluate potential alternatives and facilitate an open and transparent primary process.

The DNC’s Fear of Debates

A Washington Post report claims that the DNC has resolved not to hold primary debates — a move that has drawn the ire of leftists such as former Ohio state senator Nina Turner, who decries the decision as “undemocratic.” By denying Kennedy and Williamson the opportunity to articulate their ideas in a public forum, the Democratic Party risks appearing overtly self-serving and dismissive of democratic norms. Furthermore, engaging in open debates could afford Biden the opportunity to address substantive criticisms and demonstrate his policy accomplishments.

By deciding against holding primary debates, the DNC is effectively silencing dissenting voices and perpetuating the status quo. This move hampers the exchange of ideas and stifles the democratic process, which is fundamental to the American political system. The absence of debates also prevents voters from making informed decisions, as they are denied the opportunity to hear alternative perspectives and evaluate candidates based on their performance in a public forum. This decision is eerily reminiscent of the 2016 Democratic primaries, where the DNC was accused of favoring Hillary Clinton over Bernie Sanders, limiting the number of debates, and scheduling them during less-viewed time slots.

The decision not to hold primary debates can be seen as an act of voter suppression and censorship, as it effectively denies voters the chance to hear from candidates other than the incumbent. By excluding challengers like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson from the public discourse, the DNC is attempting to control the narrative and maintain its grip on power. This move also serves to protect the party establishment and prevent any potential disruptions to their preferred candidate’s path to the nomination. In doing so, the DNC is undermining the democratic process and disempowering voters, as they are left with little choice but to accept the party’s anointed candidate.

As the primary season unfolds, public pressure may prove to be the deciding factor in whether or not the Democratic Party opts to hold debates. If support for alternative candidates like Kennedy and Williamson swells, the DNC may be compelled to reevaluate its stance. An open and transparent primary process could not only serve as a platform for diverse voices but also allow the Democratic Party to better comprehend the needs and concerns of its base, ultimately fielding a stronger candidate for the general election.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr: Environmental Crusader and Legacy Bearer

Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the son of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, has emerged as a potential contender in the 2024 Democratic primaries. An environmental attorney and the founder of the Waterkeeper Alliance, Kennedy has dedicated his life to preserving the environment and advocating for responsible policies.

Kennedy’s environmental convictions and extensive experience make him a formidable candidate, particularly for those dissatisfied with the Biden administration’s approach to climate change. His policy proposals include aggressive reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the promotion of renewable energy, and a commitment to environmental justice for marginalized communities.

Additionally, Kennedy’s family name carries with it a sense of history and nostalgia that could invigorate the Democratic base. However, this may also prove to be a double-edged sword; critics could argue that his candidacy hinges on dynastic privilege rather than merit. For Kennedy to be successful, he must strike a balance between embracing his family’s legacy and establishing himself as a candidate with a unique and compelling vision for America’s future.

Marianne Williamson: A Spiritual Healer in American Politics

Marianne Williamson, a bestselling author and spiritual leader, is another potential challenger for the Democratic nomination. With a platform rooted in empathy, love, and spirituality, Williamson offers a striking contrast to the current political discourse. Her 2020 presidential campaign, albeit short-lived, garnered attention for its emphasis on the importance of moral and spiritual values in politics.

Williamson’s policy proposals focus on healing the nation’s social fabric and addressing systemic inequalities. Key components of her platform include reparations for African Americans, comprehensive criminal justice reform, and investments in mental health and wellness programs. In an age of heightened polarization and divisiveness, her message of unity and compassion may resonate with a significant portion of the electorate.

However, Williamson’s spiritual approach to politics and lack of political experience could also alienate voters who seek a more conventional candidate with a proven track record in governance. To surmount this challenge, Williamson must demonstrate that her unique perspective offers tangible policy solutions and can translate into effective leadership for the nation.

Solutions

Both Robert F. Kennedy Jr and Marianne Williamson present intriguing alternatives for the Democratic Party as it navigates the 2024 election cycle. While their chances may currently appear slim, the shifting political landscape and growing discontent with the status quo could pave the way for these unconventional candidates to make a lasting impact on the Democratic Party and the country as a whole. To demonstrate their commitment to democracy, the DNC should:

Reconsider the decision to forgo primary debates and foster an open and transparent primary process.

Encourage dialogue and collaboration among party members to address policy concerns and ideological disparities.

Engage with voters, particularly those disillusioned by the current political climate, to better understand their needs and priorities.

Concentrate on policy-driven discussions that emphasize key issues such as climate change, healthcare, and social justice.

The DNC’s decision to exclude primary debates is a significant blow to the democratic process, effectively silencing dissenting voices, perpetuating the status quo, and disempowering voters. This move echoes the contentious 2016 Democratic primaries, where the party establishment sought to protect the status quo by limiting Bernie Sanders’ visibility and influence. By denying candidates like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson the opportunity to engage in debates, the DNC is stifling the exchange of ideas, limiting voters’ ability to make informed decisions, and engaging in acts of voter suppression and censorship.

As the 2024 election cycle unfolds, it is crucial for the Democratic Party to re-evaluate its commitment to democracy and ensure that the voices of all candidates are heard. Only by fostering a truly inclusive and democratic process can the party hope to engage voters and address the pressing issues facing the nation today.

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Paige Holloway

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