President Joe Biden emphasized the perils he believes would accompany a potential second term for Donald Trump, citing a litany of reasons during a campaign event aimed at rallying Nevada Democrats ahead of the state’s presidential primary and the larger November elections.
Biden commenced his campaign tour with a fundraiser, where he highlighted Trump’s track record of incendiary remarks. Among the examples cited were Trump’s characterization of the January 6 rioters as “hostages,” his contemplation of executing a former top military official, and his derogatory labeling of fallen soldiers. Biden also referenced Trump’s expressed desire to assume dictatorial powers and his promise of retribution to supporters.
Transitioning to a community center in Las Vegas, Biden addressed a crowd predominantly consisting of Black individuals, asserting that their support would be instrumental in ensuring Trump’s defeat once again.
Reflecting on the significance of his 2020 challenge against Trump, Biden underscored the perceived threat to fundamental American values posed by the then-incumbent. He stressed the heightened stakes of the upcoming elections, hinting at a probable rematch between himself and Trump.
During a private gathering at a residence in Henderson, Nevada, Biden recounted reports alleging Trump’s fascination with televised coverage of the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. He urged attendees to maintain Democratic control of the White House the Senate, and to regain the House, framing these victories as critical for safeguarding American democracy.
In response, a spokesperson for the Trump campaign, Steven Cheung, rebuffed Biden’s assertions, arguing that Biden’s tenure as president had been detrimental to the nation.
Biden faces nominal opposition in the Nevada Democratic primary, with the state’s electorate historically displaying a penchant for split-ticket voting. Despite Nevada’s status as a swing state, Democrats have maintained electoral success in recent presidential elections, owing in part to the infrastructure established by former Senator Harry Reid.
However, polling data indicates a challenging landscape for Biden in Nevada, with significant dissatisfaction among voters and skepticism regarding his administration’s achievements. Biden has sought to galvanize support by framing the election as a battle for the preservation of democracy and by highlighting his economic policies and commitment to issues such as climate change and abortion rights.
The Democratic National Committee has launched a targeted advertising campaign in Nevada and South Carolina, aiming to bolster enthusiasm among key demographic groups. Meanwhile, Trump has made unsubstantiated claims regarding the Biden administration’s purported use of law enforcement against him.
For Biden, retaining Nevada’s support is pivotal, with the upcoming primary serving as a critical juncture in his reelection bid. While the Republican primary is also underway, the state GOP is holding caucuses separately, with Trump and rival Nikki Haley vying for support.