What’s the Hurry, Joe?

 

Many people have speculated about the date selected for the first Presidential debate. Many questions have been raised about having it before the candidates are formally selected at their respective conventions, of having the debates so early in the season, and since Biden chose the date, how influential he was in agreeing to the debate and choosing the date.

I suspect that Biden knows — as do his managers and Dr. Jill — that hiding out and avoiding Trump would work against him. His poll numbers are a disaster, although I can’t figure out why Biden fails in every category in a Fox News poll, except in his overall governance. What’s that about?

Since Biden’s mental acuity has become especially detrimental to his image, he/his managers may have figured out that the sooner they have the debate, the better; the less probability there will be for his mumbling and stumbling getting worse.

There have also been rumors that if he doesn’t perform well (better to know sooner rather than later) at the debate, a small cadre of his managers will tell him he has to step down. How they expect him to leave without a fuss, particularly a public fuss, is above my pay grade.

We then have to wonder who would replace him. Some people say they will bribe Kamala Harris to step down, too. Then what? Would they select Gavin Newsom? I know some think he’s handsome (not my type), but his record in California is atrocious. And I can’t imagine any other Democrat that is anywhere near qualified.

I’m amused at all the “guidance” that Trump is getting from everywhere about how he should behave at the debate: he should “tone it down” and not be so brash; he should let Biden do most of the talking because he’ll run out of juice and start losing his grasp on reality; Trump shouldn’t beat up on Biden too badly, because he’ll look like a bully, and Biden will become a sympathetic character.

More than anything, this is one time that I find the speculation somewhat amusing, despite the sobering fact that how these men perform may be a factor in who runs the country for the next four years. Yet many seem to think that the citizens have already decided who they will vote for.

Do you think they’ve decided?

Could they be convinced to change their minds by the performances at the debate?

I know that many of you hate to watch these debates.

This time, though, I’d pop the popcorn.

Published in Politics
This post was promoted to the Main Feed at the recommendation of Ricochet members. Like this post? Want to comment? Join Ricochet’s community of conservatives and be part of the conversation. Join Ricochet for Free.

There are 74 comments.

Become a member to join the conversation. Or sign in if you're already a member.
  1. kedavis Coolidge
    kedavis
    @kedavis

    Django (View Comment):

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Django (View Comment):

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Another question I have is, if Biden shows in the debate that he’s mentally deficient, how does he get removed as CANDIDATE, but still remain PRESIDENT? It’s like the results of the Hur report, “too decrepit to be prosecuted, but he can still be president.”

    Hur didn’t say that. His justification for not prosecuting was that a jury would perceive Biden that way and not convict.

    Same difference.

    No. Perception is not always reality. Now, I suspect that Biden is suffering from dementia, but I can’t prove it.

    Actually, it’s probably the people around him who are forced to take flack for him who suffer most.

    Seems to me Hur found that Biden IS an old man with poor memory etc, and while that should be irrelevant to prosecution, Hur figured that it would be enough for a jury to – improperly, really – let him off, so why bother?

    • #31
  2. Steve Fast Member
    Steve Fast
    @SteveFast

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Another question I have is, if Biden shows in the debate that he’s mentally deficient, how does he get removed as CANDIDATE, but still remain PRESIDENT? It’s like the results of the Hur report, “too decrepit to be prosecuted, but he can still be president.”

    On the other hand, if they DID remove Biden from office, that gets us Kamala. Unless they skipped her too, and then it’s Mike Johnson?

    The removal mechanisms for a president are different than for a candidate. For a president, it’s either impeachment or the 25th Amendment, which is a high bar.

    Before the official nomination, the delegates at the convention could replace a candidate. However, there might be a wrinkle this year since the Dems will be forced to nominate Dementia Joe early due to the Ohio ballot deadline.

    After the convention but before the election, the DNC can fill a vacancy for the nomination. But most states have ballot printing deadlines in September, so after that point the logistics of replacing a candidate become difficult. However, in reality you are voting for electors, not the candidate himself, so even if Biden’s name is on the ballot, the electors could vote for another nominee if Biden withdrew as candidate. Of course, that would cause great and wonderful confusion.

    • #32
  3. Django Member
    Django
    @Django

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Django (View Comment):

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Django (View Comment):

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Another question I have is, if Biden shows in the debate that he’s mentally deficient, how does he get removed as CANDIDATE, but still remain PRESIDENT? It’s like the results of the Hur report, “too decrepit to be prosecuted, but he can still be president.”

    Hur didn’t say that. His justification for not prosecuting was that a jury would perceive Biden that way and not convict.

    Same difference.

    No. Perception is not always reality. Now, I suspect that Biden is suffering from dementia, but I can’t prove it.

    Actually, it’s probably the people around him who are forced to take flack for him who suffer most.

    Seems to me Hur found that Biden IS an old man with poor memory etc, and while that should be irrelevant to prosecution, Hur figured that it would be enough for a jury to – improperly, really – let him off, so why bother?

    IIRC, Hur gave many specific examples of Biden’s decline. Sufficient to justify a 25th Amendment case? Ain’t gonna happen with Dems running the Senate anyway. 

    • #33
  4. kedavis Coolidge
    kedavis
    @kedavis

    Steve Fast (View Comment):

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Another question I have is, if Biden shows in the debate that he’s mentally deficient, how does he get removed as CANDIDATE, but still remain PRESIDENT? It’s like the results of the Hur report, “too decrepit to be prosecuted, but he can still be president.”

    On the other hand, if they DID remove Biden from office, that gets us Kamala. Unless they skipped her too, and then it’s Mike Johnson?

    The removal mechanisms for a president are different than for a candidate. For a president, it’s either impeachment or the 25th Amendment, which is a high bar.

    Before the official nomination, the delegates at the convention could replace a candidate. However, there might be a wrinkle this year since the Dems will be forced to nominate Dementia Joe early due to the Ohio ballot deadline.

    After the convention but before the election, the DNC can fill a vacancy for the nomination. But most states have ballot printing deadlines in September, so after that point the logistics of replacing a candidate become difficult. However, in reality you are voting for electors, not the candidate himself, so even if Biden’s name is on the ballot, the electors could vote for another nominee if Biden withdrew as candidate. Of course, that would cause great and wonderful confusion.

    My point remains, the reason WHY they would remove Biden as candidate, would also justify his removal as President.  Moreso really, since being President should necessarily have a higher bar.  A candidate is only TRYING to be elected.  That can be stopped simply by not electing them.

    • #34
  5. Django Member
    Django
    @Django

    The townhall websites are reporting/speculating that Biden will be “aggressive” and “punchier”. IOW, he’ll be jacked up. The old fool has only two modes: 1) shouting, 2) creepy whisper. Well, three, if you count not really there. 

    He’ll go on the attack and try to make The Orange One lose his cool. I know you don’t read my comments, Donnie, but take a hint from St. Ronald and learn how to say in a condescending manner, “There you go again.” You have the brains, but do you have the discipline? 

    • #35
  6. kedavis Coolidge
    kedavis
    @kedavis

    Django (View Comment):

    The townhall websites are reporting/speculating that Biden will be “aggressive” and “punchier”. IOW, he’ll be jacked up. The old fool has only two modes: 1) shouting, 2) creepy whisper. Well, three, if you count not really there.

    He’ll go on the attack and try to make The Orange One lose his cool. I know you don’t read my comments, Donnie, but take a hint from St. Ronald and learn how to say in a condescending manner, “There you go again.” You have the brains, but do you have the discipline?

    Maybe Trump should take his speaking opportunities to just say about what Joe just said, “What the hell was THAT?”

    • #36
  7. Django Member
    Django
    @Django

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Django (View Comment):

    The townhall websites are reporting/speculating that Biden will be “aggressive” and “punchier”. IOW, he’ll be jacked up. The old fool has only two modes: 1) shouting, 2) creepy whisper. Well, three, if you count not really there.

    He’ll go on the attack and try to make The Orange One lose his cool. I know you don’t read my comments, Donnie, but take a hint from St. Ronald and learn how to say in a condescending manner, “There you go again.” You have the brains, but do you have the discipline?

    Maybe Trump should take his speaking opportunities to just say about what Joe just said, “What the hell was THAT?”

    Or, “Could someone translate that into English so I can respond directly?”

    • #37
  8. kedavis Coolidge
    kedavis
    @kedavis

    Django (View Comment):

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Django (View Comment):

    The townhall websites are reporting/speculating that Biden will be “aggressive” and “punchier”. IOW, he’ll be jacked up. The old fool has only two modes: 1) shouting, 2) creepy whisper. Well, three, if you count not really there.

    He’ll go on the attack and try to make The Orange One lose his cool. I know you don’t read my comments, Donnie, but take a hint from St. Ronald and learn how to say in a condescending manner, “There you go again.” You have the brains, but do you have the discipline?

    Maybe Trump should take his speaking opportunities to just say about what Joe just said, “What the hell was THAT?”

    Or, “Could someone translate that into English so I can respond directly?”

    Another joke is that the sign-language interpreters for Joe’s speeches spend a lot of the time just shrugging.

    • #38
  9. Terence Smith Coolidge
    Terence Smith
    @TerrySmith

    MarciN (View Comment):

     

    Also, I don’t see Biden getting through an hourlong debate. I think he’s good for about twenty or thirty minutes, tops.

     

    I agree pretty much with your comments except this one. Biden has at least 7 full days of debate prep scheduled for this one.  In an hour and half debate, he only needs to speak coherently for up to 35 minutes in 2 and 1 minute chunks.  (the remaining time goes to Trump,  the moderators preening and commercials).  They pretty much know the topics (figure around 10) and if he gets an unexpected difficult question just answer a question you want to talk about.  Finally stay away from cannibal stories.  He doesn’t have to do well just not screw up bad enough that no one can deny it. If he can’t pull that off then he certainly will be dumped (he should be anyway). 

    • #39
  10. The Reticulator Member
    The Reticulator
    @TheReticulator

    Terence Smith (View Comment):

    MarciN (View Comment):

     

    Also, I don’t see Biden getting through an hourlong debate. I think he’s good for about twenty or thirty minutes, tops.

     

    I agree pretty much with your comments except this one. Biden has at least 7 full days of debate prep scheduled for this one. In an hour and half debate, he only needs to speak coherently for up to 35 minutes in 2 and 1 minute chunks. (the remaining time goes to Trump, the moderators preening and commercials). They pretty much know the topics (figure around 10) and if he gets an unexpected difficult question just answer a question you want to talk about. Finally stay away from cannibal stories. He doesn’t have to do well just not screw up bad enough that no one can deny it. If he can’t pull that off then he certainly will be dumped (he should be anyway).

    And the Russian bots have convinced the MAGA right to talk on and on all over the internet about Biden’s senility and ineptitude.  This is to lower expectations as well as to take up space that would otherwise be occupied by discussion of important issues on which Biden is vulnerable, healthy or not.  They have succeeded so well that if he is still drooling and still shows signs of movement as he is helped away from his lectern at the end of the debate, it’ll be scored as a Biden win.   

    • #40
  11. Randy Weivoda Moderator
    Randy Weivoda
    @RandyWeivoda

    Django (View Comment):
    The townhall websites are reporting/speculating that Biden will be “aggressive” and “punchier”. IOW, he’ll be jacked up. The old fool has only two modes: 1) shouting, 2) creepy whisper. Well, three, if you count not really there. 

    As Jon Gabriel used to say, Joe Biden’s speech delivery is whisper, mumble, shout.

    • #41
  12. Red Herring Coolidge
    Red Herring
    @EHerring

    I have no sympathy for a people and country that would elect Biden a second time. 

    • #42
  13. DaveSchmidt Coolidge
    DaveSchmidt
    @DaveSchmidt

    EODmom (View Comment):

    I think we spend too much time speculating on rational (professional?) motivations for things OBiden do. I believe the decision for the date was based on something I couldn’t even guess at. I assume there is some long view “they”* stick to because “they” seem to make no adjustments for what he ends up doing. I assume they know his state of play and don’t care. I also believe that if/when he’s no longer useful some announcement will be made on his behalf and what Jill or Joe think will not matter. I really don’t think Jill has the veto or deciding vote she thinks she has. Obama just doesn’t care what others think of him or his actions and I assume those behind him have other things in their mind.

    I can’t contort my brain to guess but my motto is Expect a surprise.

    * The “they” we all believe are really running things.

    It is possible that if Joe has a very poor performance in the debate then Obama will hold a major press conference and announce that Biden will resign soon and that he, Obama, favors a designated time line going forward.  

    Obama can wrap himself in the patriotic-statesman mantle.  

     

    • #43
  14. MarciN Member
    MarciN
    @MarciN

    Red Herring (View Comment):

    I have no sympathy for a people and country that would elect Biden a second time.

    I wouldn’t view a vote for Biden that way. It would be a vote for the Democratic Party.

    The closest similar situation that I know of would be FDR’s fourth election. He passed away just a few months later, on April 12, 1945, following that election. When I see pictures of him from those last months of his life–the Yalta conferences, for example, which were held between February 4 and February 11, 1945–it is very obvious that he is unwell. His inner circle certainly knew of the unlikeliness of his being able to serve another four-year term.

    That November 1944, the Democrats were voting only to keep the Democrats in power, not to elect a true autonomous leader.

    • #44
  15. Susan Quinn Member
    Susan Quinn
    @SusanQuinn

    MarciN (View Comment):

    Red Herring (View Comment):

    I have no sympathy for a people and country that would elect Biden a second time.

    I wouldn’t view a vote for Biden that way. It would be a vote for the Democratic Party.

    The closest similar situation that I know of would be FDR’s fourth election. He passed away just a few months later, on April 12, 1945, following that election. When I see pictures of him from those last months of his life–the Yalta conferences, for example, which were held between February 4 and February 11, 1945–it is very obvious that he is unwell. His inner circle certainly knew of the uncertainty of his being able to serve another four-year term.

    That November 1944, the Democrats were voting only to keep the Democrats in power, not to elect a true autonomous leader.

    I would say that those voting for Biden a second time are mostly voting against Trump. So neither Biden nor the Democratic party have much to do with their choice. Then again, I hope I’m wrong.

    • #45
  16. MarciN Member
    MarciN
    @MarciN

    Susan Quinn (View Comment):

    MarciN (View Comment):

    Red Herring (View Comment):

    I have no sympathy for a people and country that would elect Biden a second time.

    I wouldn’t view a vote for Biden that way. It would be a vote for the Democratic Party.

    The closest similar situation that I know of would be FDR’s fourth election. He passed away just a few months later, on April 12, 1945, following that election. When I see pictures of him from those last months of his life–the Yalta conferences, for example, which were held between February 4 and February 11, 1945–it is very obvious that he is unwell. His inner circle certainly knew of the uncertainty of his being able to serve another four-year term.

    That November 1944, the Democrats were voting only to keep the Democrats in power, not to elect a true autonomous leader.

    I would say that those voting for Biden a second time are mostly voting against Trump. So neither Biden nor the Democratic party have much to do with their choice. Then again, I hope I’m wrong.

    I think we’ll have to agree to disagree on this. :) I think the Republicans don’t trust the Democrats and the Democrats don’t trust the Republicans.

    Trump and I often see things the same way, much to my surprise. Could be that we both hail from the Northeast. But I am really pleased to see him reaching out to the less-well-off Americans. He is trying to build trust that we are on their side as much they believe the Democrats are (which of course the Democrats are not). He is fighting in the trenches to make that point as strongly as he can. If he wins in November, it will be because of these efforts.

    In 2016, he saw the campaign value of the Internet and Twitter. In 2024, he seems to be seeing the campaign value of reaching out to the low-income voters. We’ve needed to do this for a long time. I think he has accurately sized up the political marketplace.

    I’ve thought that we needed to do that for years now.

    • #46
  17. Susan Quinn Member
    Susan Quinn
    @SusanQuinn

    MarciN (View Comment):

    I think we’ll have to agree to disagree on this. :) I think the Republicans don’t trust the Democrats and the Democrats don’t trust the Republicans. 

    Trump and I often see things the same way, much to my surprise. Could be that we both hail from the Northeast. But I am really pleased to see him reaching out to the less-well-off Americans. He is trying to build trust that we are on their side as much the Democrats are. He is fighting in the trenches to make that point as strongly as he can. If he wins in November, it will be because of these efforts. 

    In 2016, he saw the campaign value of the Internet and Twitter. In 2024, he seems to be seeing the campaign value of reaching out to the low-income voters. We’ve needed to do this for a long time. I think he has accurately sized up the political marketplace. 

    I’ve thought that we needed to do that for years now. 

    I like what Trump is doing, too, Marci, but do the Demos even know what he is doing? The media continues to tell lies about him and misrepresent him. I doubt that many Dems even know anything positive about him.

    • #47
  18. The Scarecrow Thatcher
    The Scarecrow
    @TheScarecrow

    MarciN (View Comment):

    PS: I have so many questions about the legality of the Biden presidency anyway. No one ever mentions it, but I keep wondering if his signature is valid, or when it won’t be anymore because he’s not of “sound mind.”

    The report that has been squelched–not the transcript, but the video recording–of the congressman’s questioning him about classified documents stored in Biden’s Delaware home, I believe that was the issue, calls into question everything he’s doing right now legally, at least I think it does. How can you hold accountable someone whose mind is as fragile as his is?

    I have so many questions and concerns about what is going on right now.

    We just watched The Judge with Robert Duvall and Robert Downey Jr. last night. This is one of the sub themes – if you claim mental incompetence, what happens to your last year’s worth of decisions? Lots of lawsuits is what could happen.

    • #48
  19. The Scarecrow Thatcher
    The Scarecrow
    @TheScarecrow

    EJHill (View Comment):

    One can parse the polls all they want but the election will probably be decided by the double haters. Do they break one way or the other or do they simply give up and not vote?

    Our problem, and by “our” I mean those of us deeply interested in politics, is that we’re too online and too invested and have really have no idea where the vast majority of the country is at. And despite the early debate here, this campaign has not yet truly started.

    Wait until the last primaries in August determine the final slate of candidates. Then the local commercials are going to try to hang the foibles at the top of the ticket down ballot. If Biden is still on the ticket both sides are going to run an albatross campaign. “Don’t vote for ‘candidate X’ because he is so-and-so’s enabler.” If Joe is gone that dynamic changes.

    If the Democrats decide Joe has to go I don’t expect them to be rational in their choice for a replacement since their natural reaction to being down in the polls or losing a race is always, “Well, we weren’t progressive enough.” Policy-wise it’s not going to get better.

    This is so smart. We who are paying attention are sooooo sure we know what’s fair and reasonable and honest and just.

    But most people are not paying that close of attention. They will decide toward the end by whatever big thing can be brought to the fore that cements their sort of nebulous understanding of what’s going on. It’s like how we all become experts in judging women’s gymnastics during the finals of the Olympics.

    Or, currently, the Caitlin what’s-her-name business. I know her, because something is going on and she’s in the news a lot. And it’s entertaining. And we can all form an opinion based on a lot of what we bring to the topic that cements all that we think about lots of other things. But I know zero about basketball, and even less about women’s basketball. If anyone actually does, then I’m sure they are really chewing over all the deep nuances of this situation, and probably have many stories they could go on and on about at the bar, and, now that they might have my attention, could draw me into caring and raising my fist in support. (See: Campus Protests. Any Campus Protest.)

    We follow every outrage. Most people are busy with other things.

    • #49
  20. MarciN Member
    MarciN
    @MarciN

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    MarciN (View Comment):

    PS: I have so many questions about the legality of the Biden presidency anyway. No one ever mentions it, but I keep wondering if his signature is valid, or when it won’t be anymore because he’s not of “sound mind.”

    The report that has been squelched–not the transcript, but the video recording–of the congressman’s questioning him about classified documents stored in Biden’s Delaware home, I believe that was the issue, calls into question everything he’s doing right now legally, at least I think it does. How can you hold accountable someone whose mind is as fragile as his is?

    I have so many questions and concerns about what is going on right now.

    We just watched The Judge with Robert Duvall and Robert Downey Jr. last night. This is one of the sub themes – if you claim mental incompetence, what happens to your last year’s worth of decisions? Lots of lawsuits is what could happen.

    I’d like to see that too. I’ll see if I can find it. 

    I saw my extended family engaged in a long battle over a codicil to a will that was questioned because of the soundness of the mind of the person writing and signing it. I keep wondering what will happen with all of the “official acts” that Biden has put his name on for the last couple of years. I know he’s not composing these documents that I’m sure he’s signing. But can or will they be called into question at some point? 

    • #50
  21. The Scarecrow Thatcher
    The Scarecrow
    @TheScarecrow

    What would happen if Trump goes into the debate being (kind of) humble, sort of solicitous? Yes Mr. President, Of course Mr. President. And NOT sarcastic, or anything negative. Totally respectful. Never allude or make reference to his obvious infirmity. Try the old-school approach – “Mr. President, you make a good point. But surely you’ve forgotten that you also said that _____ , and now _____ has happened.” Be polite, invite Joe to hang himself. Give him room to hold forth, then ask polite questions about it. 

    Trump is fine and convincing in that clip of him on Oprah years ago; can he adopt that measured, self-assured, what’s-best-for-the-country-and-not-Just-myself attitude he demonstrated there?

    Where would the Media have to go afterwards? If he did it right, they would come off looking as desperate and pathetic as what’s left of Joe.

    • #51
  22. DaveSchmidt Coolidge
    DaveSchmidt
    @DaveSchmidt

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Steve Fast (View Comment):

    Not a Banana Republican (View Comment):
    It certainly helped that Candy Crowley inserted herself into the debate on Obama’s side.

    And that Romney was too milquetoast to say, “Candy, honey, you stay out of this. YOU’RE WRONG!”

    I doubt that would have helped him, at least by the media portrayal “Romney Attacks Woman On Live TV!”

    He hit Candy with a big three-ring binder.  

    • #52
  23. DaveSchmidt Coolidge
    DaveSchmidt
    @DaveSchmidt

    Steve Fast (View Comment):

    kedavis (View Comment):

    Another question I have is, if Biden shows in the debate that he’s mentally deficient, how does he get removed as CANDIDATE, but still remain PRESIDENT? It’s like the results of the Hur report, “too decrepit to be prosecuted, but he can still be president.”

    On the other hand, if they DID remove Biden from office, that gets us Kamala. Unless they skipped her too, and then it’s Mike Johnson?

    The removal mechanisms for a president are different than for a candidate. For a president, it’s either impeachment or the 25th Amendment, which is a high bar.

    Before the official nomination, the delegates at the convention could replace a candidate. However, there might be a wrinkle this year since the Dems will be forced to nominate Dementia Joe early due to the Ohio ballot deadline.

    After the convention but before the election, the DNC can fill a vacancy for the nomination. But most states have ballot printing deadlines in September, so after that point the logistics of replacing a candidate become difficult. However, in reality you are voting for electors, not the candidate himself, so even if Biden’s name is on the ballot, the electors could vote for another nominee if Biden withdrew as candidate. Of course, that would cause great and wonderful confusion.

    Makes me love the Electoral College.  

    • #53
  24. DaveSchmidt Coolidge
    DaveSchmidt
    @DaveSchmidt

    MarciN (View Comment):

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    MarciN (View Comment):

    PS: I have so many questions about the legality of the Biden presidency anyway. No one ever mentions it, but I keep wondering if his signature is valid, or when it won’t be anymore because he’s not of “sound mind.”

    The report that has been squelched–not the transcript, but the video recording–of the congressman’s questioning him about classified documents stored in Biden’s Delaware home, I believe that was the issue, calls into question everything he’s doing right now legally, at least I think it does. How can you hold accountable someone whose mind is as fragile as his is?

    I have so many questions and concerns about what is going on right now.

    We just watched The Judge with Robert Duvall and Robert Downey Jr. last night. This is one of the sub themes – if you claim mental incompetence, what happens to your last year’s worth of decisions? Lots of lawsuits is what could happen.

    I’d like to see that too. I’ll see if I can find it.

    I saw my extended family engaged in a long battle over a codicil to a will that was questioned because of the soundness of the mind of the person writing and signing it. I keep wondering what will happen with all of the “official acts” that Biden has put his name on for the last couple of years. I know he’s not composing these documents that I’m sure he’s signing. But can or will they be called into question at some point?

    Never overlook the autopen.  

    • #54
  25. Randy Weivoda Moderator
    Randy Weivoda
    @RandyWeivoda

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    EJHill (View Comment):

    One can parse the polls all they want but the election will probably be decided by the double haters. Do they break one way or the other or do they simply give up and not vote?

    Our problem, and by “our” I mean those of us deeply interested in politics, is that we’re too online and too invested and have really have no idea where the vast majority of the country is at. And despite the early debate here, this campaign has not yet truly started.

    Wait until the last primaries in August determine the final slate of candidates. Then the local commercials are going to try to hang the foibles at the top of the ticket down ballot. If Biden is still on the ticket both sides are going to run an albatross campaign. “Don’t vote for ‘candidate X’ because he is so-and-so’s enabler.” If Joe is gone that dynamic changes.

    If the Democrats decide Joe has to go I don’t expect them to be rational in their choice for a replacement since their natural reaction to being down in the polls or losing a race is always, “Well, we weren’t progressive enough.” Policy-wise it’s not going to get better.

    This is so smart. We who are paying attention are sooooo sure we know what’s fair and reasonable and honest and just.

    But most people are not paying that close of attention. They will decide toward the end by whatever big thing can be brought to the fore that cements their sort of nebulous understanding of what’s going on. It’s like how we all become experts in judging women’s gymnastics during the finals of the Olympics.

    Or, currently, the Caitlin what’s-her-name business. I know her, because something is going on and she’s in the news a lot. And it’s entertaining. And we can all form an opinion based on a lot of what we bring to the topic that cements all that we think about lots of other things. But I know zero about basketball, and even less about women’s basketball. If anyone actually does, then I’m sure they are really chewing over all the deep nuances of this situation, and probably have many stories they could go on and on about at the bar, and, now that they might have my attention, could draw me into caring and raising my fist in support. (See: Campus Protests. Any Campus Protest.)

    We follow every outrage. Most people are busy with other things.

    This is a wise piece of analysis.

    • #55
  26. Susan Quinn Member
    Susan Quinn
    @SusanQuinn

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):
    Where would the Media have to go afterwards? If he did it right, they would come off looking as desperate and pathetic as what’s left of Joe.

    I like it!

    • #56
  27. Randy Weivoda Moderator
    Randy Weivoda
    @RandyWeivoda

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    What would happen if Trump goes into the debate being (kind of) humble, sort of solicitous? Yes Mr. President, Of course Mr. President. And NOT sarcastic, or anything negative. Totally respectful. Never allude or make reference to his obvious infirmity. Try the old-school approach – “Mr. President, you make a good point. But surely you’ve forgotten that you also said that _____ , and now _____ has happened.” Be polite, invite Joe to hang himself. Give him room to hold forth, then ask polite questions about it.

    Trump is fine and convincing in that clip of him on Oprah years ago; can he adopt that measured, self-assured, what’s-best-for-the-country-and-not-Just-myself attitude he demonstrated there?

    Where would the Media have to go afterwards? If he did it right, they would come off looking as desperate and pathetic as what’s left of Joe.

    We saw what happened to Paul Ryan when he behaved like a respectable adult in his vice presidential debate with Biden.  Joe Biden showed himself to be a total jackass.  Did Biden win or lose more votes over his performance?  I don’t know.  I reckon some people were appalled by Biden and others were cheering, because many like to see a bully practicing his craft.

    • #57
  28. The Scarecrow Thatcher
    The Scarecrow
    @TheScarecrow

    Randy Weivoda (View Comment):

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    What would happen if Trump goes into the debate being (kind of) humble, sort of solicitous? Yes Mr. President, Of course Mr. President. And NOT sarcastic, or anything negative. Totally respectful. Never allude or make reference to his obvious infirmity. Try the old-school approach – “Mr. President, you make a good point. But surely you’ve forgotten that you also said that _____ , and now _____ has happened.” Be polite, invite Joe to hang himself. Give him room to hold forth, then ask polite questions about it.

    Trump is fine and convincing in that clip of him on Oprah years ago; can he adopt that measured, self-assured, what’s-best-for-the-country-and-not-Just-myself attitude he demonstrated there?

    Where would the Media have to go afterwards? If he did it right, they would come off looking as desperate and pathetic as what’s left of Joe.

    We saw what happened to Paul Ryan when he behaved like a respectable adult in his vice presidential debate with Biden. Joe Biden showed himself to be a total jackass. Did Biden win or lose more votes over his performance? I don’t know. I reckon some people were appalled by Biden and others were cheering, because many like to see a bully practicing his craft.

    But this time it might be different. They all know their guy is heavily compromised. And they know Trump and his supposed bullying reputation. They’ve got to be counting on it, rehearsing all the ways to use it to make Joe look sympathetic. 

    Why not flip the script, as they say? Be, if not solicitous, at least respectful? Treat him as though he’s a smart, capable opponent, give him lots of room to talk. When he spouts nonsense, respectfully ask him to explain, give him your time if necessary. Let him speak.

    Trump could come off as kind, considerate, respectful; a serious player. Biden will look like whatever he can generate through the frenzied craziness of the drugs he will be on. If Trump looks genuinely respectful, perhaps even compassionate toward Joe, as if he were a doddering, confused uncle at a family reunion, what could the press say? Where would they have to go?

    Trump totally does not need to push his case for why he is better, why Joe effed everything up – everybody knows that and will try to minimize it. Trump just has to let Joe be the Joe he is today, let him talk and talk. Then say something kind about him at the end, without being sarcastic. Truly concerned for him and best wishes for a good campaign and may the best man win, God bless America.

    • #58
  29. Django Member
    Django
    @Django

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    Randy Weivoda (View Comment):

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    What would happen if Trump goes into the debate being (kind of) humble, sort of solicitous? Yes Mr. President, Of course Mr. President. And NOT sarcastic, or anything negative. Totally respectful. Never allude or make reference to his obvious infirmity. Try the old-school approach – “Mr. President, you make a good point. But surely you’ve forgotten that you also said that _____ , and now _____ has happened.” Be polite, invite Joe to hang himself. Give him room to hold forth, then ask polite questions about it.

    Trump is fine and convincing in that clip of him on Oprah years ago; can he adopt that measured, self-assured, what’s-best-for-the-country-and-not-Just-myself attitude he demonstrated there?

    Where would the Media have to go afterwards? If he did it right, they would come off looking as desperate and pathetic as what’s left of Joe.

    We saw what happened to Paul Ryan when he behaved like a respectable adult in his vice presidential debate with Biden. Joe Biden showed himself to be a total jackass. Did Biden win or lose more votes over his performance? I don’t know. I reckon some people were appalled by Biden and others were cheering, because many like to see a bully practicing his craft.

    But this time it might be different. They all know their guy is heavily compromised. And they know Trump and his supposed bullying reputation. They’ve got to be counting on it, rehearsing all the ways to use it to make Joe look sympathetic.

    Why not flip the script, as they say? Be, if not solicitous, at least respectful? Treat him as though he’s a smart, capable opponent, give him lots of room to talk. When he spouts nonsense, respectfully ask him to explain, give him your time if necessary. Let him speak.

    Trump could come off as kind, considerate, respectful; a serious player. Biden will look like whatever he can generate through the frenzied craziness of the drugs he will be on. If Trump looks genuinely respectful, perhaps even compassionate toward Joe, as if he were a doddering, confused uncle at a family reunion, what could the press say? Where would they have to go?

    Trump totally does not need to push his case for why he is better, why Joe effed everything up – everybody knows that and will try to minimize it. Trump just has to let Joe be the Joe he is today, let him talk and talk. Then say something kind about him at the end, without being sarcastic. Truly concerned for him and best wishes for a good campaign and may the best man win, God bless America.

    I got reminded today just how delusional Biden supporters are. Local radio show with a regular guest. The host has a text line where listeners can comment. When one listener sent a text saying the choice should be easy and that all one has to do is ask, “Are you better off today than when Trump was in office?” The quarter-wit guest answered, “You’re darn right I’m better off than I was in 2020.” Whether or not that was Trump’s fault was irrelevant because it happened on his watch.

    An even more stupid comment came in response to Eric Trump pointing out that Jake Tapper had compared his father to Hitler. The guest said that it was hypocrisy because a man leading in Trump’s V. P. sweepstakes — J. D. Vance — had said the same about Biden. How biased and/or stupid does a Biden supporter have to be to equate a politician’s comment with those of a media personality and debate moderator? A different Biden-supporting guest said with a straight face that “the border is secure”. 

    As the late, great Rush said, “You can’t reason with them. They have to be defeated.” 

    • #59
  30. Terence Smith Coolidge
    Terence Smith
    @TerrySmith

    Randy Weivoda (View Comment):

    The Scarecrow (View Comment):

    EJHill (View Comment):

    One can parse the polls all they want but the election will probably be decided by the double haters. Do they break one way or the other or do they simply give up and not vote?

    Our problem, and by “our” I mean those of us deeply interested in politics, is that we’re too online and too invested and have really have no idea where the vast majority of the country is at. And despite the early debate here, this campaign has not yet truly started.

    Wait until the last primaries in August determine the final slate of candidates. Then the local commercials are going to try to hang the foibles at the top of the ticket down ballot. If Biden is still on the ticket both sides are going to run an albatross campaign. “Don’t vote for ‘candidate X’ because he is so-and-so’s enabler.” If Joe is gone that dynamic changes.

    If the Democrats decide Joe has to go I don’t expect them to be rational in their choice for a replacement since their natural reaction to being down in the polls or losing a race is always, “Well, we weren’t progressive enough.” Policy-wise it’s not going to get better.

    This is so smart. We who are paying attention are sooooo sure we know what’s fair and reasonable and honest and just.

    But most people are not paying that close of attention. They will decide toward the end by whatever big thing can be brought to the fore that cements their sort of nebulous understanding of what’s going on. It’s like how we all become experts in judging women’s gymnastics during the finals of the Olympics.

    Or, currently, the Caitlin what’s-her-name business. I know her, because something is going on and she’s in the news a lot. And it’s entertaining. And we can all form an opinion based on a lot of what we bring to the topic that cements all that we think about lots of other things. But I know zero about basketball, and even less about women’s basketball. If anyone actually does, then I’m sure they are really chewing over all the deep nuances of this situation, and probably have many stories they could go on and on about at the bar, and, now that they might have my attention, could draw me into caring and raising my fist in support. (See: Campus Protests. Any Campus Protest.)

    We follow every outrage. Most people are busy with other things.

    This is a wise piece of analysis.

    Back to the original post. It is reasonable to speculate that the Biden camp is not expecting a great performance so scheduling the debate early checks the debate box but minimizes its impact either way. Only a truly awful performance by either will make a difference.

    We the American people are known for our short attention span. 

    • #60
Become a member to join the conversation. Or sign in if you're already a member.