If it’s about the economy, Biden can win; if Father Time decides, it’s a different story

In a recent interview with NBC News' Lester Holt, former White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney weighed in on President Joe Biden's mixed fortunes in terms of economic progress and political approval ratings.

Biden received a boost on the economic front with the addition of 353,000 new jobs and unexpected growth in wages and consumer spending.

However, this positive economic news was overshadowed by a new poll revealing Biden's lowest approval rating yet, with significant gaps between him and former President Donald Trump on key issues such as the economy and border security.

Traditionally, economic prosperity tends to bolster a president's political standing. However, the disconnect between Biden's economic achievements and his approval ratings suggests several possibilities. Firstly, despite economic growth, many Americans may not feel the benefits directly, such as through increased savings or homeownership, due to factors like high interest rates. Secondly, immigration may have become a more salient issue for voters, especially considering the ongoing border crisis and bipartisan concern over border security.

However, the most concerning possibility for Biden's plummeting approval ratings is the perception of his age and mental acuity. Some voters may be using dissatisfaction with his handling of the economy or border issues as coded language for concerns about his ability to serve out his term. While it's difficult to gauge the extent of this sentiment, it could be a significant factor contributing to Biden's dwindling support.

As former Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis once quipped, "Father Time is undefeated." While economic policies and border strategies can be adjusted, Biden's age is immutable. If voters continue to perceive him as struggling mentally, it could pose an insurmountable challenge for his presidency. Ultimately, while economic improvements and policy shifts may address some concerns, Biden's age remains a fixed variable beyond his control.

08.02.24

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