In the unfolding saga of American presidential elections, the belief persists that the game is nothing more than an oversized popularity contest. The candidate with the best charm and policies typically captures the votes. We’ve seen past victories from the likes of Barack Obama, who amazed many with his record-breaking 69 million votes in 2008. Back then, the notion of a mixed-race candidate winning over ruby-red states like Indiana, Iowa, and Ohio seemed improbable, yet he did it in style. When he ran again, the numbers slightly dipped, perhaps as whispers of “communism” grew louder, but his appeal still secured a win.
Fast-forward to the electoral machinations of 2020, and a new historical narrative emerged. Joe Biden supposedly amassed a staggering 81 million votes. Some find this hard to swallow, especially considering his apparent lack of the same star power or groundbreaking narrative that accompanied previous candidates. His 2020 opponent, Donald Trump, drew 74 million votes, a figure that many believe was overshadowed by what they suspect was significant electoral hanky-panky in states with no voter ID.
Speaking of popularity contests, Jill Biden’s recent book release sheds a curious light on this voting tale. With her husband touted as America’s most popular president ever (at least by the votes), one would assume an eager readership for their insights from the East Wing. Yet, the book fizzles with dismal sales, managing only 20,000 copies sold after two weeks, limping at 429 on Amazon’s rankings. Not quite what one might expect from a family supposedly backed by 81 million enthusiastic voters.
Surprisingly—or maybe not—the New York Times ranks Jill’s book as a bestseller. However, the infamous dagger mark, often a sign of bulk purchases, implies that charitable understanding of this “bestseller” might need reevaluation. The suggestion is that bulk buys likely occurred to inflate sales figures, a stunt not entirely unfamiliar in political circles. Such tactics bear sneaky resemblance to buying likes and views, but in an old-school book-sales format.
The skepticism amplifies as critics question the credibility of everything, from Joe’s election numbers to Jill’s book rankings. It’s a winding road of disbelief, where each turn reveals eerier signs of behind-the-scenes manipulation and less-than-honest games. In public view, the family narrative unravels, exposing an apparent cash grab wrapped in political theater. Whether it’s Joe’s faltering public appearances or Jill clutching at bestseller lists, there’s a lingering sense that some are merely trying to sell an illusion to the American public.
