In the theater of American politics, the Democratic Party seems to have recruited their own version of the legendary production “Phantom of the Opera”, where old ghosts keep returning to haunt the stage. The looming figures of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris appear determined to stay in the spotlight despite a cacophony of voices suggesting it might be best for the party to change the scenery. But, like actors who refuse to leave the stage, Biden and Harris cast long shadows over the Democratic primetime, much to the chagrin of those wishing for a fresh face to steer the party’s future.
Instead of gracefully exiting, Biden and Harris are digging in their heels, suggesting they have some cinematic ambition to rewrite their legacy. Biden, a political lifer who’s spent decades in the public eye (with the same hairdo), is reportedly eager to avoid being remembered for his last lackluster debate performance. The shuffle and mumble that characterized his recent appearances have done little to endear him to younger voters, many of whom might describe his performances as somewhat disoriented. His administration had several notable gaffes, which opened borders and subsequently wallets, with inflationary results now seen as a permanent fixture on the menu of nightmares for many American families.
Meanwhile, Kamala Harris’s political maneuvers have bewildered onlookers enough that they’ve become fodder for speculation regarding her potential run in 2028. It seems difficult for the Democratic Party to consider its road to recovery when there are recurring roles for characters who’ve already been part of a not-so-stellar act. Harris’s return to the limelight will probably generate more collective groans than applause, especially among voters who appreciate substance over stage directions.
Amidst this political drama, there’s been rumblings about the true intentions behind some members associated with Biden’s inner circle. Questions arise, such as whether party veterans are motivated by financial gain or sincere efforts to serve the American people. Case in point: a particular adviser may stand to gain financially if Biden pursues another term. How this coincides with service to the public remains to be seen through the lens of eternal skepticism—something politics breeds as naturally as daisies in springtime. If politics is a game of musical chairs, some players clearly have their eyes on more than civic duty when the music stops.
In this political tableau, what’s clear is that Democrats face a future tug-of-war, needing to reconcile the imperatives of progress with the clinging nostalgia of current leadership. This scene offers up a vivid reminder: politics can be a stubborn beast, and convincing the old guard to relinquish their roles might require more than simple persuasion. Like a poorly cast play, some acts hang around long after the critics have, shall we say, suggested a rewrite.
