Democratic presidential candidate Representative Dean Phillips faces challenges in his effort to topple incumbent President Joe Biden in the New Hampshire primary. Phillips has struggled since joining the primary campaign in October, despite Biden’s declining support and Democratic displeasure.
Dean Phillips’ Chances of Beating Joe Biden in New Hampshire (Photo: Google)
Uphill Battle in New Hampshire
Phillips started his campaign by respecting Biden and supporting his objectives. He warned of a November defeat due to the president’s historically low approval ratings. Phillips trails Biden by double-digits while progressive author Marianne Williamson has single-digit support in recent surveys.
Phillips and Williamson fight in New Hampshire, which Biden’s campaign abandoned. A DNC rule change that makes South Carolina the first primary state complicates things. While New Hampshire’s constitution requires its primary to be the first in the country, the DNC penalizes the state, making its delegates non-countable.
The complicated situation gives Phillips and Williamson optimism in their difficult struggles against the president. Despite Biden’s decision not to seek ballot access in New Hampshire, supporters have begun a write-in campaign, adding mystery to the primary.
READ ALSO: Trump ‘Access Hollywood’ Tape Excluded From Defamation Trial Jury, Attorney Confirms
Hope and Critique
Phillips expressed optimism in surprising New Hampshire voters in a December interview, citing his growing numbers as he exposes himself nationwide. Williamson attacked the DNC’s procedural manipulation, saying most Democrats want “other voices.”
CNN and the University of New Hampshire found that almost two-thirds of Democratic primary voters will write in Biden. Phillips and Williamson struggle to gather momentum for a solid performance.
Despite Biden’s predicted victory in the state, non-countable delegates, Phillips, and Williamson’s performances will likely shape the narrative around his campaign and Democratic party problems. Analysts say Biden needs a big victory to avoid competition, citing the New Hampshire primary results.
Biden may benefit or suffer psychologically by the primary results, which might affect his campaign in the next elections.
READ ALSO: Exclusive Invitation: Mayor Adams And NYPD Commissioner Extend Ride-Along Offer To City Council Members
