Comedian Jon Stewart used his platform on The Daily Show to criticize the Democratic Party for making excuses for President Joe Biden’s poor performance in his debate with Donald Trump last month. Stewart called out the party’s “blatant bull***” excuses, which included claims of jet lag and a cold, and urged Democrats to have an honest discussion about Biden’s future given increasing concerns about his health and age.
These concerns were amplified during the presidential debate on June 27, where Biden often stumbled, paused, and struggled to complete sentences. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attempted to justify Biden’s performance by blaming jet lag from his appearance at the G7 summit, job-related fatigue, and a cold.
Stewart began his tirade by condemning these excuses: “For a campaign based on honesty and decency, the spin about the debate appears to be blatant bulls**t, and the redemption tour hasn’t gone that much better,” he said. Stewart emphasized the need for an open conversation about Biden’s ability to handle the rigorous demands of the presidency for another four years, stating that raising these legitimate concerns should not be seen as enabling fascism.
The long-time late-night host then played clips of various Democratic Party surrogates making excuses for Biden during network news appearances. These included an interview where Biden mistakenly claimed, “I’m proud to be – as I said, the first vice president – black woman to serve with a black president,” and another instance where he asked if a deceased congresswoman was present at an event.
Stewart argued that while the threat of another Trump administration is significant, it is not the only threat facing democracy. He pointed out that Biden’s campaign’s inability to address voters’ concerns about the president’s fitness for office is another serious issue. Stewart described the current situation as an “arthritic status quo” that undermines confidence and faith in the government.
Despite his criticisms, Stewart clarified that he was not calling for Biden to drop out of the race but rather for the Democratic Party to “open up the conversation.” He emphasized the need for inspiration and leadership, suggesting that Americans are desperate for a break from the choice between “a megalomaniac and a suffocating gerontocracy.”
Stewart proposed a gathering of potential Democratic candidates in Chicago ahead of the party’s convention in August, where they could present their pitches, with the winner facing Biden. He humorously noted that Americans want someone who can “keep it 100,” referring to honesty and transparency rather than age.
In closing, Stewart remarked that there are numerous potential candidates who could defeat Trump in the upcoming election. He replayed clips of Biden’s early debate struggles, where the president appeared to confuse saving Medicare with beating it, and criticized Biden’s reactions to Trump during the debate.
The controversy surrounding Biden’s health intensified when it was revealed that his personal physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, had met with a top neurologist and Parkinson’s specialist, Dr. Kevin Cannard, at the White House multiple times. This led to speculation about Biden’s health, which Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre exacerbated by confirming that the president had seen a neurologist three times.
Despite these issues, Biden remains determined to continue his presidential campaign, insisting that only “the Lord Almighty” could convince him to step down. However, should he change his mind, Vice President Kamala Harris is considered the best-positioned candidate to replace him. Harris has already been part of a successful presidential ticket with Biden, has strong support within the party, and would likely control a significant campaign fund.
Harris’s prospects in a potential open primary are strengthened by her position as the first female vice president and the first Black woman and person of South Asian descent to hold the role. Bypassing her for another candidate could alienate key Democratic constituencies and be perceived as a betrayal of the progress made in breaking gender and racial barriers.
Democratic strategist Andrew Feldman highlighted that Harris makes the most sense to carry on Biden’s legacy, noting that the administration’s agenda has been popular. Antjuan Seawright, another Democratic strategist, pointed out that voters have consistently supported Biden with Harris as his running mate, further solidifying her position as the natural successor.
In summary, Jon Stewart’s scathing critique of the Democratic Party’s handling of Biden’s debate performance and his call for an open conversation about Biden’s future reflect broader concerns about the president’s ability to serve another term. While Biden remains committed to his campaign, the potential for Harris to step in as a strong successor remains a significant consideration for the Democratic Party.
