President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign is gearing up for the South Carolina Democratic primary, marking the first official face-off for the party and a crucial test of early enthusiasm for the president. Recent polls indicate a decline in support among Black voters, making South Carolina a critical battleground.
The primary, set for Feb. 3, will be Biden’s first contested election since 2020, with competition from long shots like Minnesota congressman Dean Phillips and self-help guru Marianne Williamson. Despite facing unlikely competition, a strong primary turnout in a state with a majority of Black Democratic voters would alleviate concerns about Biden’s electability in 2024.
This return to South Carolina holds personal significance for Biden, who credits the state for propelling him to the White House. Although he is the expected winner, the primary turnout will demonstrate enthusiasm and support for the president while reaffirming the strength of the Black vote.
The decision to kick off the battle in South Carolina symbolizes an acknowledgment of the Black vote’s influence, following Biden’s choice to bypass Iowa and New Hampshire, two states that rejected him in 2020. The move reflects the party’s shift toward prioritizing the influence and significance of the Black vote.
While Biden did not register for New Hampshire’s primary, the South Carolina primary will serve as a rehearsal and mobilizing tool for the Biden campaign ahead of the general election. Despite South Carolina’s unlikelihood of being competitive in the general election, the campaign is expected to invest in a get-out-the-vote operation as well as focus on early primaries in Nevada and Michigan, both pivotal battleground states.
However, recent polls reflect a potential fraying of the multi-racial coalition that propelled Biden to the White House. With a decline in overall approval ratings, particularly in South Carolina, Biden faces significant challenges in retaining support among Black voters, a crucial demographic for the Democratic Party.
South Carolina congressman James Clyburn, one of the nation’s most influential Black leaders, is filing on behalf of the Biden campaign. A recent CNN poll showed a dismal 33% overall approval rating for Biden in South Carolina, emphasizing the urgency of reinvigorating his support among Black and Democratic registered voters in the state.
As the race for the Democratic nomination unfolds, Biden’s campaign demonstrates its commitment to addressing declining support among Black voters and reasserting its appeal in critical battleground states, positioning itself for the upcoming general election.
