In a political landscape that often feels like a circus, the recent reemergence of Donald Trump as the president-elect has raised eyebrows and questions about the factors at play in this unprecedented election. While some might point to Trump’s policies or his charisma, a significant element that cannot be overlooked is the prolonged and troubling narrative surrounding Joe Biden’s tenure in office. An article from the Wall Street Journal illuminates how the White House functioned under a “diminished” Biden, suggesting that this administration knew very well that the President was not fully capable of carrying out his duties.
It’s hard to ignore the implications of a leader who is not operating on all cylinders. When a President’s cognitive abilities are questionable, it can lead to a decision-making process that feels more like guesswork than governance. The discussion of the 25th Amendment looms large here. This constitutional provision is designed to provide a clear avenue for determining presidential capacity. You would think that if a leader is not mentally fit for the job, their advisors would rally to correct this serious oversight. Yet, instead of addressing the elephant in the room, Biden’s cabinet allowed him to continue in his role. The question then becomes: why?
Perhaps it was fear. Fear of the backlash that would ensue if they admitted that the President was incapacitated. Fear of handing over the reins to Kamala Harris, who has her own share of criticisms and controversies. A move like that could easily lead to a power struggle, or worse, an administration that might not align with their original agenda. It becomes clear that the stakes were high, and instead of doing what was constitutionally sound, they opted for a cover-up that makes one question the integrity of our political system.
The narrative that Biden was a functioning leader, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, foxes the public and reinforces the idea that media outlets can sometimes fall into line with political agendas. For many Americans, the perception of Biden’s competence didn’t match reality. By misleading the public about the President’s capabilities, the media played a role in this grand charade. The combination of an uninformed electorate and a diminished leader only strengthens Trump’s hand, as many voters are seeking a return to clarity in leadership.
In the end, the fallout from this scandal could affect not only Biden’s legacy but also the future of the Democratic Party. The question remains: Is the goal of the current administration to preserve power at all costs, even if that means sidelining the truth? Trump’s return highlights a crucial point: Americans are frustrated with subpar leadership, and they crave honesty and transparency. With a diminished Biden exiting office, we are reminded of the dangerous potential when politics prioritizes preservation over principle. It seems that voters, by their choice, are signaling for a change that prioritizes capability over party loyalty. And in this game of political chess, they’ve just called checkmate.