Democrat Lawmaker Predicts Biden Loss to Trump
In a surprising statement, Democratic Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez from Washington's 3rd district expressed her belief that President Joe Biden will lose the upcoming November election to former President Donald Trump.
Perez's dire prediction about the incumbent's prospects is based on Biden's performance in the recent debate, which she described as damaging and irreversible, as KATU reports.
Biden's Debate Performance Sparks Concern
Perez revealed that she watched the debate for approximately five minutes and found it distressing. "About 50 million Americans tuned in and watched that debate. I was one of them for about five very painful minutes,” Perez said.
She emphasized that the debate left a lasting impression on her, one that she believes will severely impact Biden’s reelection chances. "We all saw what we saw, you can’t undo that, and the truth I think, is that Biden is going to lose to Trump. I know that’s difficult, but I think the damage has been done by that debate,” she added.
Despite her grim outlook on Biden’s chances, Perez did not call for President Biden to withdraw from the race.
Emphasis on Democratic Principles
In her comments, Perez highlighted the importance of adhering to the results of primary elections. She acknowledged that Biden's status as the Democratic nominee is the result of the primary voting process. “A core tenet of democracy is that you accept the results of an election and the reality is that primary voting has already happened to a degree that Biden is the nominee,” she stated.
Perez’s viewpoint is particularly noteworthy given her recent victory in Washington's 3rd Congressional District, where she flipped a traditionally red seat by defeating Republican Joe Kent in 2022.
Kent Criticizes Perez and Biden
Kent, who is vying to reclaim his seat this year, has not hesitated to comment on Perez’s statement. He accused Perez of distancing herself from Biden while still supporting his policies.
“The inflation driving Bidenomics and open borders are a direct result of Democrat policies, supported by Perez, that are harming people in our district every day,” Kent asserted.
Kent further criticized Perez for attempting to separate herself from Biden. "Perez will try to distance herself from Biden and hide behind insults. I will hold her accountable for her voting record," he remarked.
Implications for the Upcoming Election
Perez’s remarks come at a crucial time as the November election approaches. Her comments reflect broader concerns within the Democratic Party regarding Biden’s ability to secure a second term against Trump.
Biden’s debate performance has been a focal point of criticism, with some Democrats fearing that it may sway undecided voters and those critical of his policies.
Meanwhile, Perez’s emphasis on respecting the primary process underscores the Democratic Party's commitment to democratic principles, even in the face of internal disagreements.
A District Under the Spotlight
The 3rd District, now under Perez’s representation, will undoubtedly be a closely watched area in the upcoming election. Perez's past victory in the historically red district showcases her ability to garner support across party lines.
However, with Kent aiming to retake his seat, the political battle in this district is expected to be fierce. Both candidates will likely leverage their positions on national issues, including their perspectives on Biden’s presidency, in their campaigns.
Nonetheless, Perez’s public expression of doubt about Biden’s chances may have broader implications beyond her district, potentially influencing Democratic voters nationwide.
Conclusion
In a candid statement, Democratic Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez expressed her belief that President Joe Biden will lose the upcoming election to Donald Trump, attributing this to Biden’s debate performance.
While maintaining her respect for the primary process, Perez’s comments reflect internal Democratic concerns. Joe Kent, her Republican opponent, criticized her approach and reiterated his opposition to Democratic policies.
As the November election nears, the Washington 3rd District continues to be a key battleground, with implications for both local and national politics.