Democrats Desperate To Turn Things Around
Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC) is acutely aware of the internal strife within the Democratic Party regarding President Joe Biden’s withdrawal and Vice President Kamala Harris’s swift elevation to the forefront of the Democratic presidential race. To address these concerns and foster party unity, Clyburn has proposed a bold strategy.
He advocates for a “lovefest” at the Democratic National Convention, emphasizing that Democrats must present a unified front as they head into the convention in Chicago. Clyburn’s solution is straightforward: Democrats need to showcase solidarity and cohesion to effectively communicate to the American people that they are a harmonious and capable party.
In a conversation with Axios, Clyburn underscored that a party’s success is jeopardized when it appears fragmented. As a leading figure in the House and a key member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Clyburn believes that a disjointed party cannot achieve its goals. He pointed out the pitfalls of engaging in internal disputes at the convention and then attempting to present a united front to voters. The disconnect between internal discord and public unity could undermine the party’s credibility.
Before Biden’s decision to step down, the Democratic Party was grappling with significant divisions. Concerns about Biden’s polling numbers and age-related issues had cast doubt on his continued leadership. Although Clyburn was initially a staunch supporter of Biden, he pivoted to back Harris after Biden announced he would not seek reelection.
Harris’s candidacy seems to be consolidating support within the party, with many Democratic lawmakers rallying behind her. However, some holdouts remain, including certain House Democrats and Senator Jon Tester (D-MT), who is contending with his own reelection challenges and has yet to endorse Harris.
Clyburn’s comments may serve as a call to action for those Democrats who have not yet publicly supported Harris, aiming to replicate the unity the party displayed behind Biden in 2020. The Democratic National Convention, scheduled to begin on August 19, will follow the Republican National Convention, which will conclude a month earlier. By then, the Democrats hope to present a cohesive and united front to the electorate.
