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Politics

Hillary Clinton to Voters: ‘Get Over Yourself’

By Jake Beardslee · April 5, 2024

Hillary Clinton stirred controversy by advising disenchanted voters to “get over yourself” during a television appearance, potentially complicating Biden’s reelection efforts by alienating certain voters.  Jay Godwin/Wikimedia

A centrist political group, No Labels, announced it would not field a candidate in the upcoming presidential election, a move seen as simplifying President Joe Biden’s bid for a second term. This decision was welcomed by Democrats who feared a No Labels candidate might inadvertently aid former President Donald Trump by splitting the vote.  The White House/Wikimedia

Initially feared to be a boon for Trump, No Labels struggled to attract a significant candidate to challenge Biden, with notable figures like Sen. Joe Manchin, former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie opting not to run.  Maryland GovPics/Wikimedia

The organization sought to offer “unifying national leadership” but decided to withdraw from the election race upon failing to find a candidate with a credible path to victory, emphasizing the importance of responsible action.  No Labels/Wikimedia

Despite the resolution of the No Labels issue, Biden faces other challenges, including from candidates running from his left, which could complicate his reelection bid.  Office of President Joe Biden/Wikimedia

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emerges as a significant third-party candidate, drawing support from both disaffected Republicans and Democrats, though his candidacy is seen as potentially benefiting Trump slightly.  Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America/Wikimedia

Jill Stein of the Green Party and Cornel West also pose challenges from Biden’s left, with West’s ballot access still in question, highlighting the fragmented opposition Biden faces.  Matt Johnson from Omaha, Nebraska, United States/Wikimedia

Democrats express concern over the impact of third-party candidacies amid Biden’s already challenging reelection campaign, especially in the face of unfavorable polling and policy criticisms.  The White House/Wikimedia

During an appearance on NBC’s “Tonight Show,” Clinton bluntly advised voters dissatisfied with the choice between Biden and Trump to support Biden, highlighting his qualities and contrasting them with Trump’s legal troubles.  Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America/Wikimedia

Clinton’s remarks spark debate, with some viewing them as dismissive towards voters looking for more than just being lectured to about their electoral choices.  George Miller/Wikimedia

Democratic strategist Mark Longabaugh and professor Grant Reeher discussed the potential negative impacts of Clinton’s comments on voter perception and engagement, especially among younger voters, according to The Hill.  U.S. Department of State from United States/Wikimedia

Some Democrats, like strategist Basil Smikle Jr., defended Clinton’s tough talk as necessary to underscore the stark choice facing voters in the election, arguing that it could mobilize the electorate, The Hill reported.  U.S. Department of State from United States/Wikimedia

As the election approaches, the Democratic Party hopes voters will appreciate the significant differences between Biden and Trump, recognizing the high stakes involved in their decision.  Joe Biden: Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America (source: Joe Biden); User:TDKR Chicago 101 (clipping)Donald Trump: Shealah Craighead (source: White House)Сombination: krassotkin/Wikimedia