Biden’s Economic Achievements and Challenges Ahead of 2024 Election

President Biden’s Economic Legacy and Election Challenges

President Joe Biden has achieved a remarkable feat by signing more significant economic legislation than any other president this century. Under his leadership, the United States has experienced record job growth and a robust recovery from the pandemic-induced recession, which has garnered admiration from many around the globe. His administration has also crafted an ambitious multinational industrial policy aimed at revitalizing America’s and its allies’ strategic manufacturing sectors to counter the growing economic influence of China.

However, despite these accomplishments, voters have largely overlooked Mr. Biden’s economic successes, instead fixating on the inflation surge that characterized much of his presidency. This disconnect has posed a significant threat to Mr. Biden’s re-election prospects, particularly as concerns about his age surfaced during a televised debate last month, reigniting doubts among voters. Polls indicate that economic issues, particularly rising prices, remain at the forefront of voters’ minds, with many expressing a preference for former President Donald J. Trump over Mr. Biden on these matters.

As Mr. Biden steps back from the 2024 campaign spotlight, Vice President Kamala Harris is now tasked with rallying support for the presidential nomination. Economic questions loom large over her candidacy, raising several critical considerations:

• Will Ms. Harris, 59, be able to sell the Biden-Harris economic record effectively? This record includes substantial investments in low-emission energy, advanced manufacturing, and various other industries.
• Can she maintain Mr. Biden’s connection with blue-collar voters? States like Michigan and Pennsylvania are pivotal, and her ability to resonate with this demographic is crucial.
• How will she re-engage economically disillusioned young voters? Many of these young voters have grown frustrated with the current administration, and winning them back is essential for a successful campaign.
• Can she navigate the lingering voter anger over inflation? Although inflation peaked at 9 percent in 2022, it has since decreased closer to the Federal Reserve’s target rate of 2 percent, yet the public’s perception is still a significant hurdle.

As the 2024 election approaches, these challenges will be central to Ms. Harris’s campaign strategy, and her ability to address them will be crucial in determining the future of the Biden-Harris administration.