President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have both secured their parties’ nominations, setting the stage for the first US presidential election rematch in nearly 70 years!
Joe Biden’s Nomination:
Biden surpassed the number of 1,968 delegates that are needed to secure the nomination. His victory was confirmed as primary results came in from Georgia, Mississippi, Washington state, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Democrats abroad. Biden criticised Trump’s leadership as a “campaign of resentment, revenge, and retribution,” urging voters to uphold democracy and protect freedoms in the face of extremism.
Donald Trump’s Nomination:
On the Republican side, Trump surpassed the 1,215 delegates needed for the nomination in four states, including Georgia, where he faces legal challenges for his attempts to overturn the state’s 2020 election results. After seizing the nomination, Trump reiterated the false claims of election fraud and highlighted issues like border security. He pledged ambitious economic policies to rally support.
Campaign Strategies:
Both candidates initiated campaign activities, with dueling rallies in Georgia. Biden announced an aggressive phase with a multi-state tour and a significant ad buy, bolstering Democrats’ financial edge.
Voter Sentiments and Key Issues
Public sentiment towards both candidates remains tepid, with little enthusiasm for a rematch. Polls indicate widespread unpopularity for both Biden and Trump.
Trump faces legal challenges with 91 felony counts across multiple indictments, while Biden contends with age perceptions and criticism over handling crises like the U.S.-Mexico border influx.
Economic issues loom large, with Biden defending his administration’s economic performance amidst pandemic fallout, though facing criticism over inflation and rising prices.
(With Reuters Inputs)