In an unexpected turn of events, President Joe Biden finds himself absent from New Hampshire’s primary ballots, setting the stage for an intriguing Democratic showdown. The omission, a result of internal party conflicts, offers an opportunity for lesser-known figures like Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson to explore unlikely presidential bids.
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Democratic Clash in New Hampshire
While the political spotlight often focuses on figures like Donald Trump and Nikki Haley, an undercurrent of a shadow presidential primary is taking shape in New Hampshire. The absence of Biden’s name on the ballot has ignited the campaigns of Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson, injecting an unexpected twist into the political landscape.
Phillips vs. Williamson: A Longshot Race
Dean Phillips, a Democratic congressman from Minnesota, and Marianne Williamson, a self-help guru and author who previously ran for president in 2020, have seized the opportunity presented by Biden’s absence. Despite their longshot status, both candidates have been actively campaigning in New Hampshire, presenting distinct visions for the future.
Dean Phillips, aged 55, positions himself as a centrist with a proven track record of bipartisan collaboration. His appeal lies in a reputation for working across party lines to achieve tangible results. Notably, Phillips emphasizes his relative youth compared to Biden, pitching himself as a fresh alternative for voters seeking a new direction.
Williamson’s Progressive Agenda
Marianne Williamson, having withdrawn from the 2020 race before the Iowa caucuses, presents a progressive vision distinct from the current administration. Proposing initiatives such as free college tuition, a declaration of a climate emergency, and the creation of a ‘Department of Peace,’ Williamson aims to tackle issues ranging from education to global conflicts and domestic challenges like white supremacy.
Despite the odds, Dean Phillips appears to be gaining attention from Granite State residents. His events draw sizable crowds, and Phillips has successfully established a robust political operation in the state. Phillips, who previously ran a family brewing company, acknowledges the challenges of challenging Biden within the Democratic party but remains resolute in his pursuit.
Democratic Committee’s Unusual Decision
The unique situation in New Hampshire stems from the Democratic National Committee’s departure from tradition. Choosing South Carolina, a more racially diverse state, to host the first presidential primary led to a clash with New Hampshire. The committee’s decision to disregard the state’s results has created an atypical scenario where Phillips and Williamson campaign, knowing that victory won’t secure their presidential candidacy.
Strategic Importance of New Hampshire
While New Hampshire historically holds fewer delegates, its significance lies in the publicity and momentum gained from a favorable outcome. Phillips and Williamson seem to be following this playbook, using the state as a platform to amplify their messages, even if they are unlikely to secure the nomination.
A write-in campaign encouraging voters to write Biden’s name on the ballot poses an additional challenge for Phillips and Williamson. Despite Biden’s absence, prominent supporters have been dispatched to New Hampshire to mitigate potential embarrassment. This write-in effort, coupled with an attempt to influence the Republican primary against Trump, adds complexity to the Democratic landscape.
Williamson’s Broad Critique
Marianne Williamson’s critique extends beyond the immediate campaign, addressing broader issues in the US. She emphasizes a business model perpetuated by political elites, leading to job elimination, worker exploitation, and wealth concentration. Williamson’s approach resonates with some voters seeking a departure from traditional politics.
Uncertain Future for Phillips and Williamson
While Phillips and Williamson may garner support in New Hampshire, there is skepticism about their ability to pose a significant challenge to Biden, especially in subsequent primaries. The Democratic party’s decision to bypass the state has left some voters feeling disenfranchised, questioning the democratic principles of the primary process.
As the Democratic drama unfolds in New Hampshire, the absence of Biden from the ballots sets the stage for unexpected contenders. Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson, despite facing uphill battles, are leveraging the opportunity to convey alternative visions for the Democratic Party’s future. The outcome of this unique primary situation will undoubtedly shape the narrative for the broader presidential race in 2024.