US Joe Biden's status in the eyes of the American public is plummeting, and at a time when the Americans haven't decided how to respond if Russia and Ukraine go to war. Even at six months in office, support for Biden was down 20%. He is even losing support in his own party. According to the New York Times, only 29% of Democratic respondents told a survey that they were satisfied with the situation in the US. Even more interesting is this: support for the president is even down among Black Americans, the most consistent Democratic constituency.
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These numbers point to a failed first presidential year. One important reason for Biden's dropping poll numbers is his unimpressive TV persona. Another data point about what appears to be the president's failure comes from a Harvard-Harris poll that asked the public if Biden and former President Donald Trump ran for president right now, who they thought would win. Fifty-three percent of respondents said they thought Trump would win, compared to 47% who favored Biden.
These numbers are meaningful. The US is not dismissive of polls. They indicate public sentiment and influence political moves. And unfortunately, the numbers are coming out at a time when Biden needs to decide how to respond should Russia invade Ukraine, and the entire world is wondering what the US will do. It's very likely that the president's decision on this crucial matter will be made to a large extent based on his public standing.
And how could the American course of action affect Israel? First of all, Israel should stay quiet. Israel mustn't utter a peep in support of either side, because its good relations with Russia are an asset. Biden will also need to make decisions about the economy that will affect every American household. "It's the economy, stupid," as has already been said.
What will happen to the two parties in Congress? In the midterm elections, will the Democrats keep their majority in the House, or will the Republicans manage to break the even split in the Senate? The battle against COVID, foreign policy, appointments of judges, and legislation on every issue could all influence Senate decisions.
In my opinion, it would be better if the Republicans strike a blow at the current Democratic majority in the House. The trend toward the radical, socialist Left that has gained traction in the Democratic Party, is not supportive of Israel, in contrast to the old-guard Democratic leadership, such as Sen. Chuck Schumer. The old guard is consistent in its traditional support If only Israel policy in Congress would go back to being bilateral, like it used to me. Perhaps the process of radicalization on the Left will change, like the results of the polls.
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