On Tuesday, December 6th, President Joe Biden expressed uncertainty about seeking reelection if Donald Trump were not in the race, warning campaign donors of heightened threats to democracy in 2024. Biden, during a series of fundraisers, asserted that Trump and his allies aim to “destroy” democratic institutions, emphasizing the risk to democracy in the next election. He highlighted Trump’s self-identification as supporters’ “retribution” and his vow to eliminate perceived “vermin” in the country. Biden urged collective action against a potential Trump victory, stating, “We cannot let him win,” emphasizing the urgency irrespective of personal considerations.
Biden’s strong rhetoric followed Trump’s attempts to undermine the 2020 election and his accusation that Biden is the “destroyer of American democracy.” Trump, when asked about abusing power on Fox News, expressed intentions to act decisively on issues like border closure and drilling on day one but denied being a dictator afterward. Biden’s campaign swiftly responded to Trump’s comments, framing them as “Donald Trump: Day One Dictator.” When questioned by reporters, Biden slightly modified his stance, expressing an expectation to run regardless of Trump’s candidacy but acknowledging the current political reality.
