A Call for Courage: The DNC’s Dilemma with Joe Biden’s Re-Election Bid

A Call for Courage: The DNC’s Dilemma with Joe Biden’s Re-Election Bid

“A man does what he must — in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles and dangers, and pressures — and that is the basis of all human morality.” ― John F. Kennedy

In the winter of 1959, I read JFK’s “Profiles in Courage,” a book about the most admirable of human virtues: courage. ‘Grace under pressure,’ as Ernest Hemingway defined it. The book profiles eight United States Senators and their acts of astounding integrity in the face of overwhelming opposition. These include John Quincy Adams, Daniel Webster, Thomas Hart Benton, Sam Houston, Edmond G. Ross, Lucius Lamar, George Norris, and Robert A. Taft. The book underscores the significance of “political courage” in American political history, a trait that politicians could benefit from today.

During the impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson in 1868, the Senate fell short of the necessary two-thirds for conviction, with seven Republicans voting with Johnson’s supporters. One of them, Edmund Ross of Kansas, declared that as he cast his ballot, “I almost literally looked into my open grave.”

Today, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) faces a similar grave as they proceed with the current Democratic nominee for President, 81-year-old Joseph Biden. This situation highlights the complexities of leadership transitions, the challenges of relinquishing control, and the emotional difficulties of stepping down, particularly when personal attachment and legacy are at stake. This often leads to stagnation caused by failing to step down at the right time.

We have seen this before with Donald J. Trump, and the spin from the White House has returned. A President claims there is an existential threat only he can fix, blaming the media and the elite for pointing out the obvious. A President with health issues raises doubts about his physical and cognitive abilities, with the risk of further deterioration. His advisors and inner circle deny the facts and follow the self-aggrandizing delusion, despite clear evidence during catastrophic debates.

They argue that Mr. Biden had a bad night but has given acceptable speeches afterward. However, most people can rise to the occasion during short, scripted appearances. A crisis cannot be put on hold because the President has a bad night. Mr. Biden, in the winter of his life, faces physical and mental limitations that are too significant at his age. Despite his defiance, it is impossible to ignore the growing mental fogginess, which has become more frequent and pronounced. He struggles to recall words and facts, confirming that time waits for no one. Despite his achievements, Biden cannot stop the clock, with or without divine intervention.

The Joe Biden we saw on the debate stage seems to have lost the ability to serve four more years. George Stephanopoulos noted this after his interview with the President, immediately regretting his blunt assessment of Biden’s performance. Given the health and mental deterioration risks of candidate Biden, these are legitimate concerns. It is evident that the DNC is failing in its responsibility by proceeding with this high-risk gamble of supporting Biden’s re-election bid. While Democrats lie to themselves, no one wants to make the painful decision to take the keys from the beloved and respected Grandfather. Biden has made it clear that he is firmly committed to staying in the race and not giving up the keys to his car.

In the absence of courage and clear leadership, Democrats are leading the country into an abyss, similar to what the Republican Party did in 2016 when they considered replacing candidate Trump but lacked the courage to proceed. In the battle for the soul of America, with democracy on the ballot, Biden’s candidacy represents a flawed solution to the complex problems America faces.

The lack of coherent alternatives exacerbates our predicament. Despite having been an excellent President during his first term, his standing is diminishing. It has become unavoidable that Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris should be encouraged by DNC leadership to make the right choice for the country and for Biden to withdraw, allowing a stronger and younger candidate to lead this crucial fight for the survival of democracy.

This is what Biden promised in his 2020 election bid: to be the bridge to a new generation of leaders. Unless this choice is made, continuation may result in a conservative landslide, giving the GOP a monopoly of power over the White House, Congress, and the Supreme Court. This is not the legacy Biden deserves—endangering and potentially ending democracy, the very democracy he claims to save.

In conclusion, the only logical choice for Biden is to gracefully decline a second term. This is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom—a testament to his autonomy and commitment to what truly matters in his journey through life, a choice with gratitude from a grateful nation and the world.

WJJH – 11.7.2024

📌Blog Excerpt

Reflection: The Democratic National Committee should reconsider their support for 81-year-old Joseph Biden’s re-election bid due to concerns about his age-related limitations. There is the need for courageous and clear leadership, with the conclusion that Biden gracefully decline a second term to prioritize the country’s future.