The Democratic Party now faces an existential crisis, but it can turn it into a historic opportunity. Despite decades of accomplishments, presidential candidate Joe Biden is clearly no longer fit to run for president.
There can be no manipulation of information that will make voters forget what they saw with their own eyes: that with Biden as the leading candidate, Donald Trump will likely return to the presidency in November’s election, and that an authoritarian MAGA regime is trying to destroy our democratic institutions.
But there is a bold choice that will enthuse the country, a path that will strengthen our democracy, the path that Trump fears most.
Imagine this: President Biden, in a selfless act of statesmanship, tells voters that with one symbolic speech he has transformed himself from a goat to the revered figure of George Washington and is passing the baton to a new generation. The Democratic Party immediately announces a “blitz primary” — not a chaotic free-for-all, but a meticulously orchestrated, media-driven process that showcases the party’s many talented leaders.
It’s not too late for the Democratic Party to choose a new candidate.
In the coming days, Biden and the Democratic National Committee will consult with national and state elected leaders to identify six dynamic candidates in an open process supported by Vice President Kamala Harris, who is the clear frontrunner and understands the drawbacks of simply being nominated. To participate, all candidates must pledge to run a forward-thinking campaign focused on merit and vision.
Democrats are taking a leaf out of Hollywood’s book, replacing the usual technocrats and commentators with beloved cultural icons (Tom Hanks, Oprah, Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw, Charlamagne Tha God, etc.) to host weekly candidate debates that draw huge prime-time audiences amplified by cutting-edge social media.
Each forum captivates audiences with the expected, the unexpected, and the fun and quirky. Voters feel truly involved in the electoral process and provide feedback in real time. The day after each forum, they voice their opinions through focus groups and flash surveys on questions like, “Which candidate impressed you with their views on foreign policy?” Millions of formerly disaffected voters participate. Young voters lean in and participate. America is riveted.
Will Democrats replace Biden?These battleground state governors offer strong options to defeat President Trump.
Better yet, no one cares about Trump. As six vibrant and talented Democratic candidates compete to present a compelling vision of the future, tensions rise and many Republicans are stunned by the contrast between Trump’s temper-fueled rants and the talent, energy and commitment of their Democratic colleagues.
Finally, Republicans who dislike Trump but cannot support Biden are drawn to an attractive alternative.
There will be increased interest in the Democratic National Convention.
At the Democratic National Convention, delegates will vote by secret ranked-choice ballot, an innovative voting mechanism with myriad benefits that will produce candidates with broad support and a more united party.
Ranked-choice voting is also a great way to build tension leading up to the convention and to narrow the field from six candidates to three, and ultimately to just one.
Biden needed a game changer.Biden’s attempts to save his campaign and presidency have so far been disappointing.
The process was fair and transparent, with no backroom deals. An unprecedented number of viewers are riveted to watch the evening convention, inspired by the newfound talent, leadership and vision of our Democrats.
And as Election Day approaches, there is a growing likelihood that not only will the Democratic candidate win handily and keep the White House, but that the lesser Democratic candidates will retake the House and hold on to the Senate against all odds.
Wishful thinking? No.
This is a realistic path to victory. This plan is achievable and inspiring. This plan will secure Biden’s place in history and win the election across America in November. This plan is our best and only hope of defeating the ruthless MAGA forces that are trying to turn America into a dictatorship.
But this can only happen if those closest to President Biden tell him the painful truth: it is time to step aside. He is an honorable man who has served our country well for 50 years. He deserves our respect, gratitude and admiration. But no one deserves our blind loyalty. The stakes are too high.
The President has said he will not withdraw from the race unless he hears from “Almighty God.” But we always hear that God helps those who help themselves. Democrats, what will you do? Stick with a strategy that is failing, or seize this moment to revitalize American democracy and make this our democracy’s finest moment.
The choice is clear.
Rosa Brooks, the Scott K. Ginsburg Dean of Law and Policy at Georgetown University Law Center, served in senior positions in the Obama and Clinton administrations and served as a volunteer policy adviser to Joe Biden’s 2020 election campaign. Ted Dintersmith, a former venture capitalist, is an author and co-founder of Democracy Defenders.
