United States: Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi has remarked that Democrats could have seen more powerful results in U.S. elections if President Joe Biden had withdrawn from the race earlier. Reflecting on the recent election losses that saw Democrats renouncing the White House and potentially both chambers of Congress, Pelosi pointed out Biden’s late exit stymied the party’s chances.
Nancy Pelosi stated that, “Had the president gotten out shortly, there may have been other candidates in the race,” referencing Biden’s departure in July after a tough debate against Donald Trump. With Biden’s swift endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris, she debated, Harris had little possibility of being ready for a competitive primary, which Pelosi believes would have supported her position.
Democratic figures have since offered mixed reactions. Aides to Harris suggested Biden’s late judgment compromised their campaign strategy. Former Biden aides, however, have pushed back, attributing Harris’s loss to campaign missteps. One ex-staffer told Axios that, “How did you spend $1 billion and not win?” Criticism was also aimed at influential Democrats like Barack Obama’s advisors, with guidance they encouraged factional conflict within the party.
The Democratic camp has seen wide-ranging criticisms following the defeat. New York Democratic congressman Tom Suozzi noted an overemphasis on political correctness, while fellow New York Democrat Ritchie Torres placed blame on “radicals” alienating key voting blocs with slogans like “Defund the Police.”
Independent Senator Bernie Sanders added his voice, stating that Democratic leaders had disaffected themselves from working-class concerns. Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison responded sharply, calling Sanders’ comments “straight up BS” on social media. The defeat has ignited a flurry of debate within Democratic ranks as the party grapples with a path forward.