USA (Washington Insider Magazine)- In a recent interview with CNN, Democratic superdelegate Bart Dame from Hawaii expressed uncertainty about supporting President Joe Biden’s reelection, reflecting growing concerns among party members. Since Biden’s underwhelming debate performance last month, Dame has been inundated with messages from constituents questioning the president’s viability as a candidate.
“I started getting phone calls, text messages, emails… people say, what can we do to save this situation?” Dame shared, underscoring a collective desire among Democrats to defeat Donald Trump while also acknowledging varying opinions on Biden’s strengths. “I think where we might disagree is whether Joe Biden is the strongest candidate to do that,” he stated during his conversation with CNN’s Erin Burnett.
As a member of the Democratic National Committee and a superdelegate, Dame wields considerable influence within the party. Superdelegates, who are senior party leaders and elected officials, automatically qualify as delegates for the convention. Should Biden withdraw from the race, it would prompt a delegate selection process to determine the party’s nominee. While superdelegates typically cannot vote on the first ballot if their votes could influence the nomination, they can participate in subsequent ballots per party rules.
Dame’s remarks highlight a growing apprehension among some Democrats regarding Biden’s chances for reelection. CNN reports that several prominent party figures have also voiced doubts about Biden’s ability to secure victory in the upcoming election, a sentiment that resonates amid recent events and Biden’s debate performances.
As the Democratic National Convention approaches, the situation remains fluid. With Biden grappling with internal challenges and external pressures, the dynamics of support among delegates could shift significantly leading up to the convention.