Republicans gain ground in 6 states after Biden’s debate debacle: analysis
Republicans are gaining ground in six states – including usual safe havens for Democrats – following President Biden’s dismal debate performance, according to a Cook Political Report analysis published on Tuesday.
Minnesota and New Hampshire and Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District have moved from “Likely Democratic” to “Lean Democratic,” according to post-debate polling.
Swing states Nevada, Arizona and Georgia have also shifted from “Tossup” to “Lean Republican,” according to the analysis.
“Biden was losing pre-debate. Now, he’s losing by a bit more,” Cook Editor-in-Chief Amy Walter wrote.
The concerning results for Democrats come as Biden has faced increased scrutiny over his prospects of completing a second term following the June 27 debate, in which he froze several times and stumbled over his words.
A growing number of Democrats — including seven House members — have called for him to drop out of the race in favor of a younger candidate they believe can defeat Trump and lead the country effectively.
Biden’s interview with ABC News’ George Stephanopolous after the debate did little to calm his doubters.
The commander in chief has insisted that he is the best and most qualified candidate while dismissing concerns about his mental and physical abilities, declaring his intention to continue his campaign.
According to limited polling data since the debate, support for Biden appears to have shifted roughly 2 percentage points in Trump’s favor, according to Cook.
“Given our closely divided electorate, even a small two-point shift is significant,” Walter wrote.
Three major swing states remain in the “Tossup” category in Cook’s latest election forecast: Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Walter noted that Trump performs well in Pennsylvania.
Biden’s biggest challenge, she said, was a lack of enthusiasm from voters.
“The Biden team has argued that though these voters may be disengaged now, once they are made aware of the high-stakes of this election, they will ultimately turnout for the president,” Walter wrote. “However, Biden’s weak debate performance calls into question whether he can effectively deliver that message to these already disenfranchised and skeptical voters.”
