During a recent speech in New Mexico, President Joe Biden made a comment that was difficult to understand, mentioning something about “hibernating in Iowa.” While the meaning behind his words remains unclear, it raises questions about Biden’s potential 2024 re-election campaign.
In contrast to being criticized for campaigning from his basement in 2020, this summer, Biden has been seen spending time at the beach rather than actively engaging in political rallies. This choice of leisure over campaign events is one of several indicators that suggest Biden might not be planning to run for president again next year.
Limited Campaign Staff – Despite hiring fundraisers for the 2024 campaign, Biden’s team consists of a small group of staffers primarily working from his home state of Delaware. This arrangement keeps them close to Biden’s residences but far from the strategic centers of swing states or the nation’s capital. With only four people on the payroll in the previous quarter, and little urgency to mount a full-scale campaign despite the approaching primary votes, the level of campaign activity raises doubts about Biden’s commitment to running.
Frugal Re-election Campaign Spending – Biden’s campaign spending for re-election appears to be less substantial compared to House and Senate candidates. While other candidates are actively investing in their campaigns, Biden’s spending has been relatively modest. The limited financial investment raises questions about the level of effort and engagement he intends to put into the campaign.
Strategic Travel Choices – Throughout the summer, Biden has taken vacations and traveled to different states, including skipping the Iowa State Fair, a traditionally important event for presidential contenders. Instead, he chose to visit Utah, which is not considered a battleground state. This raises questions about the strategic focus of his campaign and whether he is actively targeting key states.
Kamala Harris’s Absence – Vice President Kamala Harris has had a relatively low profile during the first three years of the Biden presidency. Other than occasional gaffes, she has received limited media coverage. While there is talk of deploying her to target specific demographics during the campaign, her absence from the campaign trail thus far raises doubts about her active involvement.
