WASHINGTON, USA: President Joe Biden admitted in an NBC News interview that it was a “mistake” to say he wanted to put a “bull’s-eye” on Republican nominee Donald Trump. However, Biden maintained that Trump’s rhetoric poses a more significant threat to democratic institutions. These comments came after Biden, during a private donor call, expressed his frustration with the lack of scrutiny on Trump’s actions and rhetoric. He urged a shift in focus towards Trump’s incendiary statements and policies.
Biden’s remark about the “bull’s-eye” was intended to emphasize the need for more critical examination of Trump’s agenda. Biden acknowledged his mistake but contrasted his own rhetoric with Trump’s history of inflammatory comments, including references to a “bloodbath” if he loses the election. Biden questioned how to address the genuine threat to democracy posed by Trump’s statements without potentially inciting violence.
The interview coincided with the resumption of Biden’s full-throttle campaign efforts following an assassination attempt on Trump. Biden’s campaign had temporarily paused its activities and advertising after the incident but resumed with a renewed focus. Biden criticized Trump’s choice of Ohio Sen. JD Vance as his running mate, labeling Vance a “clone of Trump” and criticizing his policy positions.
The NBC interview was part of Biden’s strategy to demonstrate his fitness for office after a poor debate performance in June. The Biden campaign recalibrated its plans following the assassination attempt, temporarily halting advertising and adjusting the president’s schedule. Despite these adjustments, Biden continued his western swing, addressing the NAACP and UnidosUS and holding campaign events in Las Vegas.
Ahead of the interview, Biden’s campaign released a statement condemning Trump’s selection of Vance, accusing him of enabling Trump’s extreme agenda. Campaign chairwoman Jen O’Malley Dillon emphasized the stark contrast between the Biden-Harris ticket and the Trump-Vance ticket, framing the election as a choice between unity and division.
Biden’s campaign is aware of the scrutiny it will face during the Republican National Convention, especially in light of the recent assassination attempt. Despite this, Biden insisted on continuing his campaign, emphasizing his commitment to democracy, the Constitution, and the rule of law. He urged Americans to take action at the ballot box and reject violence.
The assassination attempt on Trump has momentarily stalled efforts within the Democratic Party to pressure Biden to step aside. No prominent Democrats have called for his exit since the incident. Prior to the shooting, Biden faced frustration and skepticism from Democratic lawmakers regarding his candidacy. Rep. Jared Huffman of California had urged Biden to objectively assess the race’s trajectory and consider alternative leadership.
Despite acknowledging the concerns, Biden remains resolute in his decision to stay in the race. Skepticism persists among some Democrats about Biden’s viability as a candidate, but the assassination attempt has dampened immediate efforts to push for a change. Congressional leaders like Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer have met with Biden to discuss these concerns, but the overall momentum for pressuring Biden to step aside has waned for now.
As Democrats continue to monitor the situation, the upcoming Republican National Convention and Biden’s appearances this week will be critical in determining the race’s dynamics. The events of the past week have highlighted the fragile state of American politics and the ongoing challenges faced by both major parties as they navigate a tumultuous election season.
