His recent interactions with Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Ken Martin to express his willingness to campaign for Democratic candidates have not generated considerable momentum.
Biden's Support Sparks Varied Reactions
Former President Biden, who is currently 82, is viewed by some party activists and donors as an emblem of past leadership.
Alan Kessler, a seasoned Democratic fundraiser, acknowledges this sentiment within the party. Emphasizing the mixed feelings about Biden, Kessler mentioned, "There are plenty of people who were obviously very frustrated with how things played out last year."
However, Kessler also points out that Biden still retains support among many Democrats. "There are plenty of people who still love Joe Biden," he says, considering him a valuable asset who can be strategically deployed in key regions to bolster Democratic efforts.
New leadership seems to be a priority for many within the party. "At the appropriate time, Biden can be an asset to the party by campaigning in selected areas, but now isn't it," Kessler advises. Many share the sentiment that the Democratic Party needs to look forward to invigorate its base effectively.
Nationwide polling data reflects a significant challenge for the Democratic Party. With just 27% of registered voters viewing the party favorably, Biden's potential return raises questions about whether his involvement would help or hinder attempts to revitalize its image.
Despite concerns from certain factions within the party, he still enjoys considerable affection from others. Jane Kleeb, the DNC vice chair, believes Biden's oratory skills at high-profile events would be appreciated.
"If you were to call any state party chair and ask them if they wanted Joe Biden to be a keynote speaker for their annual dinner, the answer would be yes," Kleeb noted, attesting to Biden's sustained appeal.
In a more partisan reaction, Donald Trump expressed enthusiasm for Biden's political re-engagement during a statement on March 21. Trump's excitement, though partisan, underscores the continued divisiveness Biden represents to various political actors.
Jill Biden's Role and Future Works
As Biden contemplates his political comeback, First Lady Jill Biden has expressed her readiness to support his endeavors.
Her involvement could be pivotal in engaging Democratic donors and shaping campaign strategies.
"She recognizes that serving in the capacities that she served is an honor and it comes with responsibilities to the party," an insider close to Jill Biden said, highlighting her commitment to supporting Democratic campaigns alongside her husband.
In addition to their political engagements, the Bidens are also focusing on literary contributions. Joe Biden is in the process of writing a memoir, for which he is consulting various former senior officials, adding another layer of depth to his public life post-presidency.
Currently dividing his time between Delaware and Washington, Biden remains connected to the political epicenter, using federal office space to coordinate his activities. This balancing act allows him to stay connected while contemplating the role he might play in shaping Democratic narratives.
