Things are ramping up.
Ahead of the impending verdict in Donald Trump’s hush money trial, sources familiar with President Joe Biden’s campaign strategy indicate a potential shift toward a more assertive stance. Regardless of the trial’s outcome, senior Biden campaign officials intend to emphasize to voters that Trump remains a significant figure in the upcoming election, and that no legal proceedings will alter that reality.
One source summarized the campaign’s approach, emphasizing that Trump’s legal challenges won’t preclude his potential return to the White House; only voting in November for Biden can ensure otherwise. Should Trump be found guilty in his New York state trial, the campaign may contemplate labeling him a “convicted felon,” although this remains uncertain.
The campaign is considering various avenues to amplify this messaging, including leveraging key surrogates on media platforms or through advertisement campaigns, although discussions are ongoing.
Democratic strategist Jim Messina underscores the importance of framing the election as a choice between two contrasting candidates rather than solely focusing on Trump’s legal entanglements. He emphasizes that voters prioritize issues affecting their lives over Trump’s legal troubles.
The conclusion of the trial marks a pivotal moment for the campaign, signaling a transition from courtroom drama to a heightened focus on the stakes of the November election.
Despite ongoing skepticism among some voters regarding the eventual nominees, the Biden team anticipates greater clarity post-trial, particularly as the candidates prepare for debates and party conventions.
The campaign intends to convey a message that the outcome of Trump’s legal battles shouldn’t dictate voters’ decisions, reiterating their confidence in facing Trump as the Republican nominee.
Jennifer Palmieri, a Democratic strategist, suggests that the trial’s conclusion presents an opportunity for Biden to engage with voters who may have been disengaged or unconvinced about Trump’s candidacy.
Throughout the trial, Biden and his campaign have been cautious in their commentary, avoiding playing into Trump’s narrative of political interference.
Biden made a notable remark referencing Trump’s courtroom schedule, which garnered attention on social media and was capitalized on by the campaign.
The campaign has employed humor and memes to subtly address the trial’s proceedings, seeking to maintain engagement during lulls in the news cycle.
The Biden campaign’s strategy mirrors their handling of Trump’s impeachment trial in 2020, focusing on the need to nominate a candidate capable of defeating Trump in the general election.
Despite efforts to build momentum, the trial’s focus has impacted the campaign’s progress, underscoring the challenges of navigating external events during a presidential race.
Palmieri suggests that a conviction could provide Biden with an opportunity to emphasize the importance of upholding democracy, leveraging the jury’s decision as a testament to the state of American governance.
