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In the aftermath of Thursday’s presidential debate, a chorus of voices from both Republicans and some Democrats has declared Donald Trump the winner. This proclamation, however, is not only premature but also indicative of a deeper, more troubling trend in American politics: the prioritization of style over substance.
Let’s dissect this supposed victory.
Donald Trump marked his performance with a rapid, grandiose speech and displayed energy that outpaced President Joe Biden’s 81-year-old natural demeanor. But is theatrics the benchmark for winning a debate?
Historically, Americans have often favored charisma over the actual substance of what is said, significantly flawing our political discourse.
Winning a presidential debate should not depend on who can speak faster or appear more vigorous. Suppose we reduce the criteria for leadership to excessive lying, imitating a tan, toxic-masculine stamina, and 34 felony convictions. In that case, we are indeed paving our path to political and social decline.
In contrast, President Biden’s performance was commendable when evaluated based on substance rather than theatrics: the sound of his voice or how fast he walked to the podium. Despite his age and the immense pressures of the presidency, I am of the opinion that President Biden robustly defended his administrative record.
Biden’s Impact on Black America: Policies and Achievements Worth Noting from CNN’s Presidential Debate
His policies and achievements, particularly those benefiting Black America, are impressive: $50 billion allocated to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), student debt forgiveness aiding in closing the homeownership and wealth gap between Black and White Americans, a proposed $10,000 tax credit for first-time Black home buyers, record lows in Black unemployment, significant growth in Black-owned businesses, reduced childcare costs, and efforts to address redlining.
Hence, Biden’s administration has made significant strides in addressing systemic issues within the Black community. From economic policies aimed at reducing disparities to healthcare reforms that have increased access for underserved populations, his record deserves attention and respect. Trump’s lies, racist rhetoric and larger-than-life annoying persona drowned out Biden’s achievements during the debate. Nevertheless, America always seems to tune out when candidates begin discussions around improving Black lives.
During last Thursday’s presidential debate, a moment of stark revelation unfolded as the extent of former President Donald J. Trump’s racially charged rhetoric became strikingly evident. In a nation already grappling with deep-seated divisions, Trump’s remarks appeared to deliberately pit two historically underserved communities — Black Americans and Hispanic Americans — against one another. “Black Jobs” trended for hours on social. The spectacle was uncomfortable to witness and indicative of the divisive tactics that have characterized Trump’s political approach. The New York Times and Atlanta Journal-Constitution chose to target Biden instead.
Influential editorial boards should prioritize denouncing the dangerously racist rhetoric of the former president, a potential candidate for office once again, before calling for the current president and Democratic candidate to step aside. Addressing this pressing issue with the appropriate urgency is essential to maintaining the respect of Black readers unless Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are merely fleeting trends.
What happens if President Biden is re-elected but later finds himself unable to physically serve his entire second term?
Given the rigorous demands of the presidency, it is not unreasonable to question President Biden’s capacity to complete another four-year term, especially considering the toll such responsibilities can take on someone in their 80s. Yet, this concern brings us to the role of Vice President Kamala Harris.
Should Biden step aside during his second term, Harris would not only make history as the first woman president but would also bring her own set of skills and perspectives to the Oval Office.
The transition, however, would not be without its challenges. Harris’s appointment of a new Vice President, under the 25th Amendment, would require confirmation by both the House and Senate. Notably, this has happened in American history: President Richard Nixon appointed Ford as Vice President after Spiro Agnew resigned due to a scandal involving charges of tax evasion and money laundering. President Gerald Ford appointed Rockefeller as Vice President after Ford became President following Nixon’s resignation in the wake of the Watergate scandal. Congress approved both appointments.
Given the current polarization and the likelihood of a Republican-majority House, this process could be fraught with partisan conflict. To ensure a smooth transition, Democrats would need to secure control of both the House and the Senate in Novemeber, a daunting but not impossible task.
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Reflecting on Leadership: Substance Over Showmanship in Political Choices
The presidential debate’s aftermath should prompt us to reflect on what we value in our leaders. Do we prioritize flashy performances and empty promises, or do we seek leaders who offer genuine, substantive solutions to the nation’s challenges? I personally seek the latter; that’s why I voted for this current administration and will vote for them again. Hence, the choice is ours, and it is one that will shape the future of our democracy.
As we move forward, let us demand more from our political discourse. Let us look beyond the superficial and focus on the policies and records that will truly impact our lives and the lives of future generations. Only then can we hope to elect leaders who are worthy of the highest office in the land.