In a striking op-ed, New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd described the recent push by top Democrats to oust President Joe Biden from the 2024 presidential race as a "coup," sparking significant debate across the political spectrum. Dowd's column, published on August 18, 2024, critiques the Democratic leadership's behind-the-scenes maneuvers, which she argues were aimed at forcing Biden to step aside in favor of a younger, more viable candidate.
Dowd draws a parallel between Biden's forced withdrawal and historical coups, highlighting the irony of Democrats who have long championed democracy now engaging in what she refers to as a "jaw-dropping putsch." The column has garnered attention for its candid critique of figures like former President Barack Obama, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, all of whom Dowd suggests were instrumental in orchestrating Biden's exit.
In less than a month. pic.twitter.com/jJ8eRVe81g
— Franklin Leonard (@franklinleonard) August 18, 2024
According to Dowd, the decision to push Biden out was driven by plummeting poll numbers and growing concerns within the party about Biden's ability to mount a successful campaign against former President Donald Trump.
Despite Biden's initial resistance, Dowd claims that intense pressure from Democratic elites ultimately led to his reluctant decision to bow out.
Maureen Dowd is now the New York Times Pitchbot of New York Times columnists.
I wonder if it registers with her how dumb this looks? https://t.co/nDlgU97gLq
— Hank Epton (@HankEpton) August 18, 2024
The reaction within the Democratic Party has been mixed, with some members expressing relief that Biden stepped down while others, like former Biden chief of staff Ron Klain, have voiced strong disapproval. Klain, in a recent interview, condemned the move as undemocratic, arguing that Biden had earned his place on the ticket through the primary process and deserved the opportunity to run again.
Dowd also highlights the fractured relationships that have emerged within the party as a result of Biden's ouster. She notes that despite public statements of support, there is significant tension between Biden's camp and those who played a role in his removal. Pelosi, who has publicly praised Biden and even suggested that his likeness belongs on Mount Rushmore, is portrayed in Dowd's column as a "ruthless tactician" who may have second thoughts about her role in the president's departure.
This internal discord comes at a critical time for the Democrats, as they prepare for their national convention in Chicago. The decision to replace Biden with Vice President Kamala Harris has been met with skepticism, particularly from those who believe Harris lacks the broad support needed to unify the party. Dowd notes that Harris's staff has already begun to distance itself from Biden's team, further exacerbating the party's divisions.
As the Democratic National Convention approaches, all eyes will be on how the party navigates these internal conflicts and whether Harris can solidify her position as the new standard-bearer. Meanwhile, Dowd's column has ignited a broader conversation about the future of the Democratic Party and the implications of sidelining an incumbent president.
The elephant in the room is that not one vote has been cast by any voter for Kameltoe or wallZ. So much for the democratic process.