Nawaf's Notes: From Debate to Disarray - America’s Tumultuous Path to the 2024 Election.
Nawaf's Notes: From Debate to Disarray - America’s Tumultuous Path to the 2024 Election.
The Stark Reality of Choosing Between Biden and Trump in a Volatile World.
The following is based on the author’s original Arabic article published in Qatar’s Al-Raya Newspaper on July 3, 2024, 1…
Last week’s presidential debate between the current and former American presidents was nothing short of a spectacle, revealing a striking disconnect between the grave responsibilities of the presidency and the absurdity of the performance aired worldwide on CNN. When I spoke to a friend in Washington after the debate, he joked, “If you thought watching the debate was tough, imagine the challenge for the poor sign language interpreters.” This remark aptly captured the essence of the event. One candidate struggled to recall where he was—let alone the question posed—while the other, a convicted felon, hinted at using his potential term for vengeance rather than governance.
America and the world watched in disbelief at the state of the “land of the free and the home of the brave,” where the choice from over three hundred million Americans has been reduced to “the old man or the criminal.” This stark reality extends to the political parties and media, which have allowed these two to emerge as the primary choices. The bewilderment is palpable: how did the political landscape come to this, where voters must choose between two such polarizing figures?
The global community now questions the future role of America on the international stage, fearing it may swing between “impotence and tyranny.” In a year marked by political and humanitarian volatility worldwide, the last thing the world needs is a superpower teetering on the edge of uncertainty. America’s allies and adversaries alike are closely monitoring this electoral circus, wary of the implications it holds for international diplomacy and global stability.
Following initial disappointing polls for President Biden post-debate, there are rumors that Democratic Party members have secretly approached him, urging him not to seek a second term. They believe this could pave the way for a candidate capable of preventing a second “Trumpian” era. However, early indications suggest President Biden views this as a “humiliating surrender.” This internal conflict within the Democratic Party only adds to the chaos, highlighting a deep division that could have significant repercussions for the upcoming election.
"The global community now questions America's future role on the international stage, fearing it may swing between 'impotence and tyranny.'"
It is impossible to predict what will happen in the coming months leading up to the actual election on November 5. However, there is no doubt that the current election season in the United States is entering its decisive phase, which will determine who the next “leader of the free world” will be. The stakes are higher than ever, and the electorate is more divided than at any point in recent history. The outcome will not only shape America’s future but also its role on the global stage.
In a recent development late Monday night (Qatar Time), the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling that stunned many by establishing a new legal and constitutional principle: the American president is “legally immune” in “official” actions taken as president. This decision has further destabilized the already fragile American political scene. The question now is: will this new constitutional principle influence American voters in the upcoming election?
This decision, arriving at such a critical juncture, underscores the fragility of the American political landscape. As voters prepare to make their choice, they must now consider the broader implications of this ruling. Will it sway public opinion, or will the electorate remain entrenched in their partisan divides? The answer to this question could very well determine the future of American democracy and its standing in the world.
"Democratic members have reportedly urged Biden to step aside to pave the way for a candidate capable of preventing a second 'Trumpian' era."
As we approach the November election, it is clear that the stakes have never been higher. The world watches with bated breath, hoping that the outcome will bring stability and a renewed sense of purpose to the “leader of the free world.” The next few months will be pivotal, not just for America but for the entire global community.
