President Joe Biden’s campaign seems to be trying to channel a catty, unprofessional energy to gain media attention amid former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial. The tactic: “On Wednesdays, we make news.”
Biden’s team has taken advantage of Wednesdays, the only weekday without trial proceedings, to dominate the airwaves, deliver political jabs, and spotlight the president’s reelection bid.
Last Wednesday, Biden released a video proposing two debates with Trump. “Make my day, pal,” Biden said to the camera, addressing Trump, who has repeatedly challenged him to a debate “anytime, any place.” Biden added, “So let’s pick dates, Donald. I hear you’re free on Wednesdays.”
Earlier this month, Biden gave a rare interview to CNN’s Erin Burnett, making headlines by warning that his administration would halt the supply of offensive weapons to Israel if Israeli forces invaded Rafah. Another Wednesday saw Biden attacking his White House rival during a campaign fundraiser.
“The other day a man came up to me and said, ‘Mr. President, I’m being crushed by debt. I’m completely wiped out,’” Biden quipped at the event. “I looked at him and said, ‘I’m sorry Don, I can’t help you.’”
With Trump’s trial nearing its conclusion, it’s uncertain how long Biden will continue this Wednesday strategy. However, Democrats believe it has been effective so far.
“I think it’s smart to understand the news cycle that we are living in, and accepting it and trying to preempt it when you can,” said Michael LaRosa, former press secretary to First Lady Jill Biden. LaRosa credited Biden’s campaign with “monopolizing the news cycle” on Wednesdays.
MSNBC host and former White House press secretary Jen Psaki acknowledged the challenge Biden’s campaign faces with Trump dominating media coverage due to his legal issues. “It is an important story to cover,” Psaki said, “but it blocks out the sun. It doesn’t leave a lot of space for other coverage of other issues.”
Biden’s campaign highlighted the contrast between the two candidates. “While Trump is ranting and whining on social media, the President is on the ground, touting his record accomplishments and promising to fight for Americans on those issues that will decide this election,” said Lauren Hitt, a spokesperson for the Biden campaign. Very profressional.
Democratic strategist Brad Bannon noted that the White House hasn’t effectively communicated Biden’s economic accomplishments. Moving forward, the Biden campaign needs to spotlight the president’s vision against Trump’s branding prowess.
“People dismiss Trump as an idiot, but when it comes to dealing with the media, he’s a master,” Bannon said. “Can you imagine any other person with deep legal problems who is this competitive in a presidential race?” Biden, he added, must improve his media presence: “They’re the White House, for God’s sake.”
