REUTERS reports this morning that President Joe Biden’s allies are scrambling today to contain the fallout from a faltering performance at the first 2024 U.S. presidential debate. The Biden campaign was hoping for a strong debate to quell concerns among voters that the 81-year-old Democratic incumbent had the necessary stamina and cognition, due to age-related issues, to serve a second four-year term.
Instead, a hoarse-sounding Biden stumbled over his words at times, especially in the early stages of the debate, with one Biden donor, who asked for anonymity, called Biden’s performance “disqualifying” and predicted there would be calls for him to step aside in favor of another candidate prior to the upcoming Democratic National Convention in August.
Post-debate interviews conducted by REUTERS with undecided voters disclosed the general opinion that Biden’s showing was feeble, embarrassing and difficult to watch.
The REUTERS article may be read in full HERE.
My brothers and sisters, there is, of course, much that could be said following last night’s debate; however, it seems clear to this writer that the unprecedented debate format involving tight rules about not talking over each other, strict timelines for answers and rebuttals, and the cutting off of microphones when allotted time expired, was effective in moving the debate along and seemed to minimize interference by the moderators.
The debate format didn’t prevent mean-spirited or personal attacks, but it avoided the usual physical posturing, the seeking of audience applause or response, and except for a few unsavory words that were, ironically, used by President Biden not former President Trump, the evening proceeded without what would have otherwise included admonitions to the audience, protestors and candidate showboating.
The debate results were predictable, with no shocking or new positions articulated. Both candidates’ positions on major issues such as illegal immigration, abortion, social programs (e.g., Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security), COVID-19 response, the tragedy that was the Afghanistan withdrawal, and the condition of the economy in general, have been relatively consistent throughout the campaign’s duration.
Because FGGAM is a non-partisan and unapologetically biblical worldview-supporting Christian organization, calling “winners” and “losers” is meaningless, as FGGAM presents the news directly, always with the word of God as the guiding standard, and trusts the reader to draw his or her own conclusions.
That said, there were a few noteworthy items worthy of mention from last night’s debate:
- It would be disingenuous to argue against the perception that President Biden was feeble in his presentation, and sometimes angry. In fact, during one obvious moment of mental confusion, he concluded his response by stating that “we finally beat Medicare” – which former President Trump was able to turn on its head and to his benefit;
- It is interesting that many mainstream news agencies, including television commentators during the immediate, post-debate discussion, all stated or nodded in agreement, as if it were an undeniable and well-known fact, that former President Trump “spewed” lies; yet, there was no specific justification for these comments. Holding an opinion about something does not make that opinion a “lie” or “misinformation” simply because another person happens to hold a differing opinion; and
- It is also clear that virtually every mainstream news agency, regardless of perceived liberal or conservative bias or stance, is reporting that Democrat leaders are ‘panicking’ and that calls for President Biden’s replacement on the ticket, considering his performance last night, are happening.
See BBC reporting HERE.
See CNN reporting HERE.
See NBC reporting HERE.
See Fox News reporting HERE.
See Newsmax reporting HERE.
See AP News reporting HERE.
As is always the case, and regardless of one’s political views and party affiliation (or lack thereof), the bible is clear that we are to live our lives in accord with God’s word, prayerfully, trusting Him, and seeking His will in our daily lives and in our civil governments. Let’s pray for our country’s leaders and governments, and ask for God’s will to be done (on earth, as it is in heaven). Amen.
Let’s remember what the bible has to say about prayerfully seeking God’s will:
Jeremiah 29:11-12 (NKJV)
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.”
Matthew 6:9-13 (NKJV)
The Lord’s Prayer
“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, [h]allowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done [o]n earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts [trespasses], [a]s we forgive our debtors [those who trespass against us]. And do not lead us into temptation, [b]ut deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.”
Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
1 Timothy 2:1-3 (ESV)
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior…”.
