President Biden Defends Age and Experience in New Campaign Ad
President Biden, despite acknowledging his age, has emphasized his experience as the key factor that makes him a strong candidate. In a new campaign ad released on Saturday, which marks the informal start of the general election campaign, Biden addresses the camera and asserts, “Look I’m not a young guy. That’s no secret. But here’s the deal, I understand how to get things done for the American people.”
The ad, titled “For You | Biden-Harris 2024,” highlights Biden’s accomplishments in various areas, including the recovery from the pandemic, climate change, prescription drug prices, and the economy. After showcasing his track record, the 81-year-old President takes aim at his likely opponent in the upcoming fall election, former President Donald Trump.
One of Biden’s criticisms against Trump is his failure to pass an infrastructure law. In contrast, Biden highlights his own success in achieving this feat. Additionally, he accuses Trump of infringing upon women’s freedom of choice by appointing three conservative justices to the Supreme Court who played a role in overturning Roe v. Wade.
Biden asserts, “Donald Trump believes the job of the president is to take care of Donald Trump. I believe the job of the president is to fight for you, the American people. And that’s what I’m doing.”
The topic of Biden’s age has been a political vulnerability for him among the general electorate. According to a late February CBS News poll, only 32% of respondents believed that Biden has the cognitive and mental health to effectively serve as President, while 49% held the same view about Trump.
Despite these concerns, Biden maintains a sense of humor about his age during the making of the ad. At the end of the footage, an off-camera voice requests another take, to which Biden jokingly replies, “Look, I’m very young, energetic and handsome — what the hell am I doing this for.”
The ad is part of a recently announced $30 million ad buy in battleground states. It will be aired on various digital platforms as well as national cable, local broadcast, and cable television in key states such as Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, and North Carolina. The campaign has also secured air time on popular networks like ESPN, TNT, FX, Adult Swim, and Comedy Central, with plans to run the ad during the March Madness NCAA college tournament.
President Biden’s campaign aims to leverage his experience and accomplishments to appeal to voters across the country. By highlighting his ability to effectively address pressing issues and contrasting himself with his likely opponent, Biden hopes to solidify his position as a dedicated fighter for the American people.
