A CNN political analyst has offered a rather stark assessment of President Biden's legacy following his 2024 election defeat to Donald Trump. Edward-Isaac Dovere suggested that Biden's time in office might be largely eclipsed by Trump's return to the presidency.
Dovere highlighted the irony of Biden's situation, entering the presidency as the antithesis of Trump, only to be succeeded by him. This, he argued, presents a significant challenge for Biden's historical standing.
Recent polling data seems to underscore this point. A Marquette Law School national poll conducted in early December showed Biden's approval rating at a low of 34%, the lowest recorded by the poll since he took office. This decline in public support could further contribute to a diminished legacy.
Dovere observed what he described as Biden's gradual retreat from the public eye, contrasting this with the proactive approach he believes Biden could be taking during the transition period, even suggesting the use of executive authority. However, he noted that such actions might make Biden a target for Trump's criticism. Dovere specifically mentioned Biden's recent vacation to St. Croix as an example of this perceived passivity.
Referencing a past interview with Biden shortly after he became president, Dovere recalled Biden's efforts to establish his own identity, separate from his roles as Obama's vice president and Trump's opponent. However, Dovere now suggests that Biden's legacy might be primarily defined by his position between the two Trump presidencies, a sentiment echoed by a senior White House official Dovere spoke with prior to the election.
