Why Joe Biden’s Absence from the 2024 New Hampshire Primary Ballot Could Impact His Presidential Run
In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden’s name will not be on the ballot for the 2024 New Hampshire primary. This decision has raised questions about the potential impact on his presidential run and the implications it may have for his campaign.
The last time Biden participated in the New Hampshire primary was in 2020, where he faced a disappointing outcome. Despite his efforts to flip the narrative and make a comeback, he finished a distant fifth, behind even the former mayor of a midsized Midwestern city. This time around, Biden’s absence from the primary ballot is seen as a strategic move, albeit one that comes with its own risks.
One of the main concerns surrounding Biden’s decision is the perception of weakness it may create. As a candidate facing questions about his age and political standing, not being on the ballot could potentially set him up for embarrassment. Steve Duprey, a former Republican National Committeeman from New Hampshire who supported Biden in the 2020 general election, expressed this sentiment, stating that it “just sets up an incumbent president for a potential embarrassment.”
So why isn’t Biden on the 2024 New Hampshire primary ballot? The answer lies in the efforts of national Democrats to change the primary system. After Biden became president, there were plans to hold the first primary in South Carolina, a more diverse state that gave him his first win in the 2020 primary. Iowa was removed from its caucus slot, and New Hampshire was told it would share its primary day with Nevada. However, New Hampshire refused to comply with these changes, leading Biden’s campaign to swear off the state’s primary altogether.
While Biden’s absence may not impact his ability to be the Democratic nominee in the general election, it does carry potential risks for his 2024 reelection campaign. The fear of losing the White House to Republicans, particularly former President Donald Trump, looms large. This concern has led to a write-in campaign by determined New England Democrats who believe supporting Biden in the primary is critical.
The contest in New Hampshire has already sparked contradictions and confusion about its significance. The Biden campaign’s silence, along with the dismissiveness of the Democratic National Committee, reflects a sense that the primary doesn’t hold much weight. However, for Biden allies who understand the state’s importance and hope to maintain its position as an early voting state, supporting the president through write-ins is seen as crucial.
Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire expressed disappointment in the DNC’s decision not to have New Hampshire go first, emphasizing the state’s commitment to democracy and the threat posed by Trump’s potential nomination. While Biden faced challenges in previous primary runs, history has shown that New Hampshire can humble candidates. In 1968, sitting President Lyndon Johnson was only put forward as a write-in option due to opposition to the Vietnam War within his own party. Despite narrowly overcoming his opponent, the performance was viewed as a political loss.
The absence of Biden on the New Hampshire primary ballot has also raised concerns among some Democrats in the state. Mackenzie Murphy, former New Hampshire state director for Representative Eric Swalwell’s presidential campaign, expressed mixed feelings about writing Biden’s name on her ballot. However, she recognized his accomplishments as president and acknowledged that his absence speaks volumes to the people of New Hampshire.
While it remains to be seen how this decision will ultimately impact Biden’s presidential run, it is clear that New Hampshire holds significance in the larger political landscape. As a swing state with a history of shaping presidential races, its primary results have the potential to influence the national narrative. The outcome of this primary will undoubtedly be closely watched by political observers and may provide insight into future trends and strategies within the Democratic Party.
In conclusion, Biden’s absence from the 2024 New Hampshire primary ballot raises important questions about his campaign’s strategy and the potential implications for his presidential run. While it may not directly impact his ability to be the Democratic nominee, the risks associated with this decision cannot be ignored. The contest in New Hampshire presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, and its outcome could have broader implications for the Democratic Party and the upcoming general election. As the primary unfolds, all eyes will be on the Granite State to see how voters respond to Biden’s absence and what it may mean for his future as a presidential candidate.