Obama is back to his old way again.
As the specter of a potential challenge from former President Donald Trump looms over the White House, sources within the administration suggest that former President Barack Obama is stepping up his involvement, ostensibly to assist President Joe Biden in navigating the political landscape.
According to insider reports, Biden has been engaging in regular consultations with Obama, seeking counsel and strategy advice not only directly from the former president but also through intermediaries like White House chief of staff Jeff Zients and key figures from Biden’s campaign team. The discussions have intensified amid concerns that the upcoming electoral contest could result in a loss for the current administration.
The heightened collaboration between Biden and Obama is set to culminate in a joint appearance with former President Bill Clinton at a significant fundraising event scheduled at New York’s Radio City Music Hall. Sources close to Obama indicate that he has harbored persistent concerns about Biden’s electoral prospects, particularly fearing a scenario where Trump secures a return to the White House.
The relationship between Obama and Biden has seen its share of complexities. Notably, Obama initially dissuaded Biden from pursuing a presidential bid in 2015, following the tragic death of Biden’s son, Beau. Instead, Obama threw his weight behind Hillary Clinton, deeming her as having a stronger chance against Trump—a decision that some of Biden’s current aides believe sidelined him at a crucial juncture.
Despite past differences, the bond between Obama and Biden has endured, bolstered by years of collaboration, including Biden’s instrumental role in shepherding key Obama-era legislation like the Affordable Care Act through Capitol Hill. Although disagreements, such as Biden’s opposition to Obama’s troop surge in Afghanistan, have surfaced, their relationship has evolved into one akin to family, especially following the personal tragedy of Beau Biden’s passing.
As the Biden administration grapples with challenges on multiple fronts, White House insiders note a diminishing sense of mistrust between the two leaders, underscored by a shared urgency to fend off Trump’s potential resurgence. Moreover, Biden’s recent strong showing in the State of the Union address has served to assuage some doubts among Democratic circles regarding his electoral viability.
In the evolving landscape of American politics, the alliance between Obama and Biden remains a linchpin, embodying a convergence of experience, strategic acumen, and a common commitment to steering the country forward amidst formidable obstacles.