President Joe Biden is focusing on outreach to Black voters, seen as a crucial demographic for the Democratic Party, with plans to address an NAACP gala dinner in Detroit. Recent polls have shown that more than 20% of Black voters support former President Donald Trump, which could pose a challenge for Biden in the upcoming election. Black voter turnout is also a concern, as a decline in 2016 was a contributing factor to Hillary Clinton’s loss. Biden’s current level of support among Black voters is essential for his chances of winning in 2024.
In a meeting with politically active Black voters in Detroit, themes emerged that explained the lack of enthusiasm for President Biden. While they recognized some of his policy accomplishments, such as lowering the price of insulin and wiping out student debt, they felt that these changes did not have a significant impact on their communities. Issues like economic security and the distribution of benefits from federal spending were a concern for the group, leading to a feeling of disenchantment with the political system as a whole.
Although these voters were not enthusiastic about Biden, they also did not express fear or dread towards former President Trump. They saw Trump as a selfish figure but did not perceive his offensive statements as deeply racist. Trump’s previous persona as a wealthy figure mentioned in rap songs also resonated with some Black voters. The disappointment with the lack of tangible change from Biden’s policies, combined with the lack of enthusiasm for Trump, creates a challenge for the Biden campaign to mobilize ambivalent Black voters ahead of the election.
To address the lack of enthusiasm among Black voters, the Biden campaign is emphasizing the impact of infrastructure spending and prescription drug reforms on the Black community. They are also highlighting Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which could resonate with Detroit, one of the cities hardest hit by the virus. The campaign is using various strategies to reach Black voters, such as major ad buys, social media posts, and meetings with community leaders. Trusted messengers, including Vice President Kamala Harris, may play a critical role in mobilizing Black voters.
Organizers in Detroit highlight the importance of distinguishing between lack of enthusiasm and actual turnout among Black voters. While some express apathy towards both Biden and Trump, others are concerned about the threat of a second Trump term, especially regarding women’s reproductive health care. The influence of channels like the “manosphere” in reaching ambivalent Black voters poses a challenge for Democrats, who need to combat misinformation and engage with these communities effectively. Overall, the Biden campaign faces the task of generating excitement and mobilizing Black voters ahead of the election.
