No one has been more clear-eyed and consistent in the need to focus the public on the threat Donald Trump poses to democracy than Joe Biden. It was central to his 2020 campaign. He spoke about it repeatedly in major addresses aimed at healing the country after the January 6 insurrection and calling out the threat of a new wave of voter suppression legislation posed to free and fair elections.
Against the advice of many, he insisted on it being central to the Democratic midterm election strategy. The result was historic victories for Democrats up and down the ballot.
Once again, even as some professional cynics scoff, he is making democracy a central part of his argument in 2024. He understands that when history judges this time, it will focus on the fight for democracy. And wheat is good for history often proves good politics in the here and now.
For observers of Biden, it is no surprise that he issued a blunt challenge to Trump to participate in two true debates. No audience theatrics, no interruptions, and no stunts – just the two candidates and the moderators addressing the issues of the day.
Much has and will be written about the political risks and benefits of this strategy. Pundits will themselves debate the narrow tactical advantages to one approach or another. In my view, much of that misses the big picture…
