My thoughts from a communications strategist perspective on recent developments in American politics:
One - In the high-stakes arena of American politics, we're witnessing a clash of Dem factions.
This political situation is the Cuban Missile Crisis of our time but on the home front.
President Biden is determined to secure a second term, a hallmark of the greatest presidents. Despite firey tensions between the Obama and Clinton factions, his team is fiercely committed to continuing the campaign.
The principle of inertia—Newton's first law—aptly describes Biden's current trajectory.
An object in motion stays in motion unless acted upon by an external force.
As long as Biden remains on the ticket, his momentum builds, making his continued presence more likely unless a significant external event intervenes.
An op-ed from Hollywood prince Geoge Clooney isn't the significant external event that will change Biden's motion.
Two: Last night's Biden press conference highlighted a fascinating contrast between political and foreign policy reporters.
Political reporters focused on style, poll numbers, and the horse race of politics, much like ESPN covers the college football playoffs. In stark contrast, foreign policy reporters delved into policy, world knowledge, and the geopolitics of the global game, like Miranda Priestly's question about cerulean blue.
This difference underscores the varied lenses through which news is interpreted and reported.
Political reporters often focus on the immediate public interest and drama of electoral contests, while foreign policy reporters provide a deeper analysis of international relations and strategic implications.
Three: George Clooney's op-ed has sparked a significant conversation and is a cross-over communications moment about Joe Biden's candidacy.
Clooney's perspective, while well-intentioned and well-encouraged by certain Dem factions, the comments do not resonate with the everyday American worker.
As Chris Matthews pointed out on MSNBC, Biden's strength lies in his resilience and deep connection with key Democratic constituencies, including minorities, Hispanics, and labor unions.
Biden's journey, marked by personal loss and recovery, has endeared him to many.
His ability to connect with voters personally is a crucial asset as he navigates the political landscape. Calls for Biden to step aside often come from those still reeling from past political defeats and may not reflect the sentiment of the broader Democratic base.
George Clooney might have just saved Joe Biden's job.
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
