As President Biden's time in office draws to a close, opinions on his legacy are sharply divided. Former Hillary Clinton advisor and CNN contributor Karen Finney offered a positive assessment, asserting that history will judge Biden favorably. She highlighted his administration's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, citing the vaccine rollout and economic recovery efforts as key achievements. Finney also pointed to investments stemming from the Chips and Science Act as potentially transformative for communities nationwide, predicting that these contributions will endure despite potential claims by Donald Trump.
Conversely, Scott Jennings, another panelist on CNN's "State of the Union," offered a starkly contrasting perspective. Jennings criticized the Biden administration for a lack of transparency regarding the president's health and predicted that Biden would leave office "in disgrace." He cited the Hunter Biden pardon, inflation, and the withdrawal from Afghanistan as significant blemishes on Biden's record. Jennings also expressed concern about emerging information regarding Biden's mental acuity, suggesting that a potential cover-up would further tarnish his legacy.
Finney acknowledged concerns about Biden's health but emphasized his commitment to his duties and highlighted his foreign policy achievements, including the return of hostages from the Middle East. Jennings challenged this assertion, arguing that the long-term consequences of the administration's actions are still unfolding.
Public opinion polls reflect this division. A Fox News poll showed Biden with a 41% approval rating as he prepares to leave office, with only 7% of respondents considering him among the greatest presidents. A Marquette Law School poll placed his approval rating even lower, at 34%, his lowest since taking office.
