Democrats Uneasy: Biden’s Leadership Comes into Question During Transition

President Biden’s low profile during the Trump transition sparks concern among Democrats and White House officials.

At a Glance

Biden has been largely absent from public view following the Democrats’ electoral loss.
Some Democrats and White House officials criticize Biden’s perceived lack of leadership.
Biden’s aides suggest his absence is due to a focus on a peaceful transition of power.
Potential Democratic leaders for 2028 include Governors Gavin Newsom and Gretchen Whitmer.

Biden’s Absence Raises Eyebrows

President Joe Biden’s conspicuous absence from the public eye following the Democrats’ electoral loss has sparked growing discontent within his party. Unlike his predecessors, Biden has not scheduled a post-election press conference and has avoided unscripted appearances and press questions. His recent activities have focused on international trips and ceremonial events rather than engaging in domestic policy debates.

WATCH: CNN's @ScottJenningsKY nukes Joe Biden being absent and avoiding the press as President-Elect Trump is welcomed back to the world stage with the Notre Dame Cathedral reopening:

"What video do we have from the last few days of Joe Biden? He was in Africa a little bit, but… pic.twitter.com/hqL72yoMeL

— Curtis Houck (@CurtisHouck) December 7, 2024

This perceived lack of leadership from Biden and the White House has contributed to a sense of directionlessness within the Democratic Party. Some party members and White House officials have expressed frustration with Biden’s approach, viewing it as a missed opportunity to shape the narrative and protect Democratic interests during the transition period.

Criticism from Within

The criticism of Biden’s approach has come from various quarters, including some within his own administration. A former White House official, speaking anonymously, did not mince words in their assessment of Biden’s behavior:

“He’s been so cavalier and selfish about how he approaches the final weeks of the job.”

This sentiment is echoed by others close to the administration, with one Democrat close to senior lawmakers stating bluntly, “There is no leadership coming from the White House.” These criticisms underscore the growing concern about a leadership vacuum within the party as it prepares for the incoming Republican administration.

Biden’s Strategy: Respect for Democratic Process or Missed Opportunity?

Biden’s aides have defended his low profile, suggesting it stems from a belief that few want to hear from him at this stage and a focus on ensuring a peaceful transition of power. This approach is seen by some as a respectful nod to the democratic process, avoiding actions that might undermine the incoming administration.

However, critics argue that this strategy is a missed opportunity. They believe Biden should use his remaining time to highlight his administration’s accomplishments and take more aggressive actions to protect Democratic interests. The lack of a concrete plan to combat Trump’s return to power has left many Democratic officials concerned about the party’s future.

Looking to the Future

As Biden recedes from the spotlight, attention is turning to potential future leaders of the Democratic Party. Senators Peter Welch and Chris Coons have acknowledged the power transition and the need for new Democratic leadership to emerge.

Among those being eyed as potential Democratic presidential candidates for 2028 are California Governor Gavin Newsom and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. These figures are seen as possible standard-bearers for the party in the post-Biden era.

As the transition progresses, the impact of Biden’s approach remains to be seen. While some view his silence as strategic, others fear it may be ceding too much ground to the incoming administration. The coming weeks will likely prove crucial in shaping the Democratic Party’s direction and cohesion as it prepares for a new political landscape.