He’s doing worse than 2020.
Bill Maher expressed concern over recent polls showing President Biden losing support among key voting groups despite what Maher described as Biden’s efforts to cater to these demographics ahead of the upcoming election. During a panel discussion, Maher emphasized that the electorate’s primary concerns revolve around everyday pocketbook issues like inflation, which affect people across racial and gender lines. Maher criticized the focus on international issues like Ukraine, Gaza, and democracy promotion, arguing that these topics fail to resonate with ordinary voters facing economic challenges.
Maher highlighted statistical declines in Biden’s support among Hispanic voters, noting a drop from 59% in 2020 to 45% currently, despite recent executive actions aimed at benefiting this demographic. He criticized what he termed as ineffective “pandering” tactics, citing examples such as Biden’s addresses at Morehouse College and policies on student loans, which have not yielded expected support among targeted groups.
Acknowledging the role of pandering in politics, Maher underscored that it must align with the desires of the electorate while demonstrating leadership. He questioned Biden’s strategy, pointing out a significant loss of support among Black voters under 50 and only 36% approval among student debt holders for Biden’s student loan forgiveness initiative, which forgave $144 billion in student debt.
Maher raised concerns about identity politics and its efficacy, contrasting Biden’s performance with former President Trump’s apparent advantage among Hispanics on border security issues. Maher criticized what he viewed as Democrats’ oversight of Hispanic concerns regarding border security, suggesting it could be interpreted as dismissive or even prejudiced.
In contrast, Maher praised actions by Democratic figures like Maryland Governor Wes Moore, whom he suggested should consider a presidential run, for initiatives such as mass-pardoning marijuana convictions, which Maher viewed as sensible rather than pandering.
Throughout his commentary, Maher expressed skepticism over Biden’s current electoral standing despite recent polling indicating a lead, questioning the disconnect between Biden’s policy approach and voter sentiment on crucial issues.
