Biden Faces "Structural Disadvantage" in Upcoming Debate Against Trump

MSNBC host Alex Wagner expresses concerns about the high expectations placed on President Biden in the forthcoming presidential debates.

In the current political climate, the presidential campaign remains stagnant, with no major events seeming to alter the race. Despite the former President Trump's conviction of 34 felonies and President Biden's son's felony convictions, these issues have not had a significant impact on the candidates' standings. Each scandal or controversy briefly dominates the news cycle before quickly fading away, leaving little lasting impression on the trajectory of the election.

This situation poses a particular challenge for Biden, whose dismal 38% approval rating suggests he is at risk of losing. While a debate performance can sometimes swing the outcome of a campaign, this year's events may represent Biden's last opportunity to salvage his reelection prospects.

Biden Faces "Structural Disadvantage" in Upcoming Debate Against Trump

Trump holds a slight edge in key battleground states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Biden's inability to secure a victory in Pennsylvania, despite numerous visits to the state, would effectively signal the end of his campaign.

In an attempt to shake up the race, Biden has challenged Trump to two debates. The first debate, hosted by CNN, will take place in less than 10 days. It offers Biden a crucial opportunity to raise the stakes and alter the narrative of the election.

Biden Faces "Structural Disadvantage" in Upcoming Debate Against Trump

However, the CNN debate rules, which include two-minute answers, no notes, and microphone muting for the opposing candidate, favor Biden. Nonetheless, debates can often be overrated, as evidenced by Mitt Romney's impressive performance in his first debate against Barack Obama, which ultimately had no significant impact on the race.

The pressure is on Biden to demonstrate aggression, determination, and knowledge during the upcoming debate. Trump, on the other hand, is expected to receive support from his base regardless of his performance.

Biden Faces "Structural Disadvantage" in Upcoming Debate Against Trump

It will take an extraordinary event to change the minds of voters who have already formed strong opinions about these candidates. The same holds true for the Trump veepstakes, with Trump emphasizing the limited significance of the vice presidential candidate.

Trump's recent criticism of Milwaukee, the host city for next month's Republican National Convention, has further complicated his efforts to unify the party. His focus on the city's crime rate, which has declined significantly this year, raises questions about his motives.

Biden Faces "Structural Disadvantage" in Upcoming Debate Against Trump

Trump's age and Biden's perceived frailty have been recurrent themes in the media. While it is true that Biden often appears vulnerable, Trump's age and his own behavior have also raised concerns about his fitness for office.

Despite Trump's criticism of Fox News' coverage, the network has generally provided balanced reporting on the campaign. However, the New York Times' recent investigation into the resistance preparing to combat a potential second Trump presidency suggests that media outlets believe a Trump victory is likely.

The upcoming CNN debate represents a critical moment for Biden. If he fails to capitalize on this opportunity to alter the course of the race, his chances of securing reelection will diminish significantly.