As we head into the heart of the 2024 election cycle, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Democrats are stuck with President Biden as their standard-bearer.
This predicament is not just a consequence of Biden’s incumbency but a direct result of the Democratic Party’s refusal to allow for a vigorous and robust first-in-the-nation primary process. If it had, the party might have come to this conclusion much earlier — perhaps as early as November 2023, when candidates began campaigning in New Hampshire in earnest.
New Hampshire has long prided itself on its first-in-the-nation primary status, a position that ensures candidates face rigorous scrutiny and engage directly with voters. This grass-roots, retail politics approach is uniquely effective in testing the mettle of presidential hopefuls.
However, the Democratic National Committee chose to sidestep this time-honored tradition, opting instead for a more controlled and less competitive primary process by choosing South Carolina to hold the first primary. The consequences of this decision are now apparent: a lack of viable alternatives to Biden, who many within his party view as a weak candidate after his dismal performance in last week’s debate with Donald Trump.
The New Hampshire primary is not just a ceremonial kickoff; it’s a crucible. Candidates are tested on their policies, their character, and their ability to connect with ordinary Americans. This is where unexpected challengers can gain momentum and where front-runners can stumble. It’s a proving ground that benefits both the candidates and the electorate by ensuring the strongest possible nominee emerges.
Advertisement
By bypassing this essential process, the DNC shielded Biden from the type of rigorous examination that might have revealed his vulnerabilities early on. Instead of a healthy contest of ideas and leadership styles, the Democrats have handed the nomination to an incumbent whose approval ratings are consistently underwater. Biden’s tenure has been marred by economic struggles, a chaotic foreign policy, and a failure to address effectively key issues like inflation and border security.
Had the Democrats allowed for a robust primary in New Hampshire, the party might have realized much sooner that Biden’s reelection bid would be an uphill battle. Potential challengers could have emerged, tested their appeal with voters, and perhaps even supplanted Biden as the nominee. This process would have invigorated the party, provided a platform for fresh ideas, and ultimately led to a stronger candidate.
Advertisement
Consider the contrast with the Republican approach. The GOP has embraced a competitive primary process, welcoming a range of candidates to make their case to voters. This not only strengthens the eventual nominee but also engages and energizes the base. It’s a strategy rooted in confidence and a belief in the democratic process. Republicans understand that the best candidate is the one who can withstand the scrutiny of a tough primary and come out stronger on the other side.
The Democratic Party’s decision to shield Biden from a primary challenge reeks of a lack of confidence in their own bench. It sends a message that they are more concerned with protecting the status quo than with fostering a vibrant and dynamic political landscape. This approach not only weakens their nominee but also disenfranchises voters who deserve a say in who represents them at the highest level.
Furthermore, this strategy undermines the very principles of democracy. A primary process that encourages competition and debate is fundamental to ensuring that the best candidate emerges. It’s a process that respects the intelligence and judgment of voters, trusting them to make the right choice. By denying this process, the DNC effectively told Democratic voters that their opinions and preferences are secondary to the party’s predetermined agenda.
The irony is that Democrats are often champions of the importance of democracy and voter engagement but have stifled these very principles within their own primary process. By doing so, they have not only weakened their chances in the November election but have also alienated many within their base who feel their voices are not being heard.
Advertisement
The Democratic Party’s decision to bypass a robust primary process has left them with a weakened incumbent and a disillusioned base. By failing to allow for the vigorous contest that New Hampshire’s primary would have provided, they have deprived themselves of the opportunity to select the strongest possible nominee. As a result, they are now stuck with Biden, a candidate whose weaknesses are becoming increasingly apparent.
The lesson here is clear: Democracy thrives on competition and debate, and when these are stifled, everyone loses.
Joe Sweeney is a Republican New Hampshire state representative.
