In the current political landscape of the United States, there is little agreement between Democrats and Republicans. Nonetheless, both parties can concur on the chaos that has characterized the past few months.
“Topsy, turbulent and traumatic” is how one leading Democratic strategist characterized this electoral cycle.
“Chaotic, crazy and fun” is how a Republican consultant summed it up.
This year witnessed the realization of Democratic nightmares.
It culminated in the shortest presidential campaign in US history.
Jerrod Dobkin from Message Inc, who is involved in a Republican Senate campaign in Pennsylvania, expressed his views on the situation.
“I believe we [Democrats] have lost our way,” stated Brett Bruen, a former White House official under President Barack Obama.
“It has certainly been a rollercoaster ride, and many of us are concerned that Biden may not have the stamina to endure another four years. If Harris does not succeed in this race, it will likely be attributed to Biden’s prolonged tenure,” remarked the President of the Global Situation Room.
Mr. Bruen noted that Kamala Harris lacked sufficient time to build a team and establish a message.
“She found herself thrust into a campaign at full speed,” he commented.
“Not only did she need to assemble a team, but she also had to clarify her policy positions, which is where she notably struggled. How can she set herself apart from Biden? I think this is partly due to her loyalty, as well as the limited time spent on development,” he added.
Joe Biden’s decision to step aside altered everything.
“I would argue that the pivotal moment in this election was the debate at the end of June. That was the most significant presidential debate in our history,” said Kevin Madden, a former spokesperson for Mitt Romney’s campaign in 2012.
He noted that this electoral cycle would have enduring repercussions.
Brett Bruen, a former White House official under President Barack Obama, weighed in.
“We have invested around $15 billion across all candidates on various ballots, and much of the communication aimed at these activist party base voters has centered on claims that one side is going to steal the election, and if the other side prevails, democracy will be at risk,” Mr. Madden explained.
“This has fostered a significant level of tension within the American electorate, and it will pose a challenge for the nation to unite,” he continued.
Read more: Latest US Election stories Live: Updates as they happen
The two failed assassination attempts on the former president, now a convicted felon, added further drama to this historic American election.
Amidst countless headlines, it’s easy to overlook Donald Trump’s remarkable resurgence to the forefront of the party after his 2020 defeat.
“If Trump emerges victorious, it will be the most remarkable political comeback in history,” said Jerrod Dobkin from Message Inc, involved in a Republican Senate campaign in Pennsylvania.
Mr. Dobkin pointed out that Trump possesses a “unique ability” to endure challenges and is the only figure capable of uniting the GOP.
“Despite the internal conflicts within the party, I believe this is beneficial for democracy and essential for the nation, as it is likely to yield the best outcomes for the populace,” he concluded.
Both Democrats and Republicans will be eager to leave this tumultuous campaign behind.
The polls closing today may alleviate campaign anxiety but will introduce new uncertainties regarding the future of both parties.
