Discontent in Democratic Party: Biden’s Bitterness Looms Large

Despite the appearance of unity propagated by the leaders of the Democratic Party, there are budding indications of underlying bitterness within former President Joe Biden. Once positioned to occupy the high-profile closing spot at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Biden may now only be deemed fit for a less influential opening-night address on unity. This would notably occur in a party that, in actuality, seems to have reluctantly moved forward without his leadership.

Reports from Politico’s Playbook suggest that Biden will not be present for the week-long convention’s ensuing festivity. Notably, this means that he will be missing the speech of his former boss, Barack Obama. This absence stirs up speculation about potential resentments Biden might harbor for Obama, who apparently did not defend Biden when his re-election dreams came crumbling down post a disastrous debate against Donald Trump in Atlanta.

The implications could be far-reaching if Biden chooses to retreat to the White House during the remaining convention days. This absence would mean missing the symbolic 2024 presidential election handover to Kamala Harris, a decision taken by Biden himself when he stepped down and endorsed his vice president on July 21. This would likely send misgivings and an unintended message to the Harris-Walz team and their Republican opponents alike.

Early last week, the White House remained dodgy about the former president’s plans for the convention, confirming that he will address the attendees but left out any mention of his presence during Harris’ formal acceptance of the party’s nomination in Chicago. Biden’s focus during the convention was pointedly described by White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre as centered around unity and direct communication with American citizens.

Despite the press secretary’s outward portrayals of Biden’s zeal for the convention, Politico reports that Biden harbors feelings of frustration and anger toward leading party figures, primarily for their role in his political downfall. These figures include Obama, ex-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. It is claimed that Biden is upset that Obama, rather than exhibiting active support, contributed subtly, albeit passive, towards his ousting.

Biden is also reported to view Pelosi’s actions to dislodge him as exceptionally ruthless, despite her justifying those as strategic moves essential for the Democrats’ success in November. Although Biden admitted he grudgingly respects Pelosi’s maneuvers, the words of approval seemed to come dripping with taciturn disdain. Schumer too didn’t escape Biden’s silent scorn for his supposed involvement in the undermining coup.

Remaining discontented with circumstances, the former president’s feelings towards some influential party figures cannot be unnoticed. The echo of his ousting still haunts him, and at times, he seems inclined to express his resentment. Though on the surface level, Biden seems at peace, insiders know him to be nursing his wounds.

Senator Chris Coons, a staunch Biden loyalist, tried to paint a positive picture, stating that Biden was looking forward and focusing on the work he can realistically achieve in his remaining tenure. Nonetheless, the realities of what Biden does rather than what he says at the convention will have a significant bearing on the tone set by the Harris-Walz campaign.

For instance, Biden could eloquently preach unity in his Monday address, garnering an enthusiastic reception. Yet, if he were to be markedly absent during key speeches by Obama and Harris in the forthcoming days, it would raise eyebrows and further proliferate unsettling questions about the Democratic Party’s true unity after a tumultuous summer season.

Biden’s presence and actions throughout the conference will send an unspoken message louder than any speech. While public utterances about unity might be well-received, his absence during key events could harm the façade of coherence the Democratic Party is desperately trying to maintain.

Despite the attempts of Biden loyalists to paint a picture of brightness and optimism, any keen observer will note that the former President’s actions speak louder than his words. And his actions, thus far, suggest a rift within the party that no amount of avoidance can hide.

The tension surrounding Biden’s place within the Democratic Party adds an additional layer of uncertainty to the current political landscape. As rumors swirl regarding Biden’s lingering resentment, one has to wonder how this could potentially impact the Harris-Walz campaign and beyond.

Overall, the Democratic Party is facing a testing time, with unity proving to be a challenging virtue. The surface appears calm, but the undercurrents suggest disgruntlement and discord. It remains to be seen how Biden’s actions at the convention will further influence this narrative in the challenging political future that lies ahead.