Perron: Biden’s Failure to Address Campus Protests May Carry Consequences

President Joe Biden appeared to be gaining ground in the presidential race, but a wave of student protests swept the country, shifting the focus of the news.

In my latest book, “Beat the Incumbent,” I discuss how incumbent leaders are often associated with the status quo, making it harder for challengers to gain support unless voters are dissatisfied with the current state of affairs.

A majority of voters believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, adding to the general discontent with the status quo. The protests on college campuses further fuel the perception of chaos and lack of control, which could pose a challenge for Biden.

While pocketbook issues usually dominate presidential elections, immigration is also a top concern for many voters. Those worried about immigration may also be troubled by the student protests. Biden will need to address the protests more assertively to avoid losing support from these voters, even though this may impact his base and potentially swing states like Michigan.

With little room for error, Biden must navigate the delicate balance of condemning violent protests while supporting peaceful solutions without politicizing the issue. It is crucial for him to focus on winning issues and distance himself from controversies that could detract from his campaign.

As a political consultant and author of “Beat the Incumbent,” I emphasize the importance of challenging the status quo and highlighting weaknesses in the incumbent’s leadership. Trump excels at exploiting his opponent’s vulnerabilities, making it essential for Biden to effectively counter these attacks and focus on his strengths as a candidate.

Ultimately, it will be crucial for Biden to navigate the complexities of the campaign, condemn violence, and support diplomatic efforts while maintaining a strategic and focused approach to key issues that resonate with voters.

Louis Perron, PhD, is a political consultant with a proven track record of successful election campaigns worldwide. He is the author of “Beat the Incumbent: Proven Strategies and Tactics to Win Elections.”