While I would LOVE for the United States—finally—to have a female President, I do not think it is in the cards this time around, for many reasons. The female candidates are just not bringing in the campaign cash that the white male candidates are generating, so far. This could change, but unlikely. We have to win this one, and win it big, or our republic will be in the rearview mirror. We cannot afford another four years of Donald J. Trump or Mike Pence.
Thus, I’m in the Joe Biden camp, and I hope he chooses a female Vice Presidential running mate. There are so many qualified, outstanding women presidential candidates that it would be a solid plus for Biden’s candidacy.
Biden has the chops to win—and with a big enough margin where the election can’t be stolen with a “too close to call” scenario that we’ve seen too many times, and with Russian interference all but guaranteed because Republicans have thwarted every effort to protect our elections. Moreover, many Americans have become so busy, apolitical, and disengaged that soundbites and optics are what win elections instead of solid policy positions and a track record. Biden has the ability to satisfy Americans’ tangibles, as well as intangibles.
A Top Ten List:
1. He’s Obama #2, so will motivate many across the socio-economic and ethnic electorate to vote. His policies are close to Obama’s policies, IOW.
2. He’s white and male, so will motivate those who are uneasy with any other demographic to vote.
3. He’s solidly progressive and has an excellent track record. He is pro-women, pro-environment, pro-national security, pro-education, pro-affordable health care, pro-DACA and humane immigration reform, pro-ethics, pro-infrastructure, etc.
4. He’s dynamic and charismatic, so can go toe-to-toe with Trump, and be an excellent and dignified contrast to the slobbering incoherent mobster Occupant.
5. He’s a smart, kick-ass debater.
6. He is willing to admit mistakes, and works hard to bridge divides. He’s human, and not a stiff.
7. His announcement was appropriately fiery and anti-Trump, anti-fascism. He will campaign on this and get people fired up.
8. He has wanted this for decades—he really, really wants to be President. This will resonate.
9. He has a wealth of experience and respect throughout Congress and the world.
10. He truly loves America and people. He cares. People recognize that and will see the contrast between him and Trump, who only cares about his profit margin.
For these reasons, I believe Joe Biden is our best hope in winning the 2020, and in moving our country forward to what it could and should be.