U.S. President Joe Biden made a significant address during his visit to South Carolina, directly addressing Black voters while denouncing white supremacy and political violence.
This visit aimed to reconnect with a critical constituency whose support has waned since he took office.
Biden condemns white supremacy at Mother Emanuel AME Church
Biden delivered his message from the pulpit of the historic Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, where a white supremacist had tragically gunned down nine Black parishioners in 2015.
During his speech, Biden strongly condemned white supremacy, stating, “The word of God was pierced by bullets of hate and rage propelled by not just gunpowder but by a poison.”
“Poison that has for too long haunted this nation. And what is that poison? White supremacy … This has no place in America — not today, tomorrow, or ever.”
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Biden criticizes Trump as threat to democracy
The Democratic president continued criticizing former President Donald Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican Party’s 2024 nomination.
Biden cited the deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters in 2021 and labeled Trump as a threat to democracy.
He described Trump’s actions as “among the worst dereliction of duty of any president in American history.”
Biden tags Trump ‘loser’ amid re-election strategy questions
Biden also addressed Trump’s refusal to concede the 2020 election and his failure to acknowledge the votes of millions.
He bluntly stated, “He’s a loser,” drawing applause from the audience.
Recent polling has shown Trump beating Biden in swing states, raising questions about Biden’s re-election strategy.
Some Democrats have been eager to hear Biden be more candid and target Trump more aggressively.
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James Clyburn concerned about Black voter support
Representative James Clyburn, a key figure in Biden’s 2020 primary win in South Carolina, expressed concerns about Biden’s standing with Black voters.
He mentioned frustration that the president’s record had not resonated enough with the Black community.
To address these concerns, Biden’s campaign is making strategic changes.
Mitch Landrieu, who played a significant role in implementing Biden’s infrastructure law, will leave his White House job to help lead the re-election effort.
South Carolina’s growing importance in Democratic primary calendar
South Carolina has gained prominence in the Democratic primary calendar, reflecting the party’s belief that its diverse population better represents its voters.
The campaign is investing earlier than ever to reach voters of color, a departure from the traditional strategy of focusing on turnout closer to Election Day.
Biden strengthens ties with Black voters in South Carolina visit
Biden’s visit to South Carolina and his address to Black voters signal an effort to enhance his connection with this crucial demographic while denouncing white supremacy and responding to criticism about his re-election strategy.
As the campaign unfolds, these efforts will be closely watched, especially regarding Trump’s potential 2024 candidacy.
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