By Precious Momoh
US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris made their first joint public appearance since last week’s election defeat, commemorating Veterans Day with a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
This appearance marks a significant moment, as both Biden and Harris walked marked by the Democrats’ internal reflections on the election outcome. Many within the party are examining factors contributing to Harris’s loss, with some criticisms aimed at Biden’s age and his decision to run again, despite his previous statements about serving as a “bridge” to the next generation of leaders.
On Monday, Biden and Harris solemnly attended the Veterans Day ceremony, placing their hands over their hearts in honor of fallen servicemembers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Dressed in dark suits, they stood side-by-side, united in respect for America’s military members. Biden later delivered a speech at the Memorial Amphitheater within Arlington, a final resting place for U.S. military figures, presidents, and thousands of soldiers.
Earlier in the day, Biden welcomed veterans to the White House in recognition of the holiday before departing to Arlington. His Veterans Day address emphasized the “duty and honor” of American servicemembers, as well as the nation’s debt to its veterans.
This event, symbolic of respect and remembrance, comes amid the Democratic Party’s internal discussions about what factors contributed to the election loss, with some acknowledging Biden’s insistence on running again as a potential point of contention.
Internal Party Reactions to Harris’s Election Loss
While criticisms directed at Vice President Harris have largely been restrained, Democratic discussions have grown more intense as the party evaluates the election outcome. Some party members have pointed to Biden’s advanced age, 81, suggesting that his decision to seek a second term could have influenced voters.
“Biden made a promise to be a bridge,” commented a Democratic strategist. “For many, that suggested he’d serve one term and support a new generation. The decision to run again was not without its consequences.”
Although criticism of Harris herself has been relatively mild, her loss has led to calls for a more detailed examination of the Democratic strategy and the challenges it faces. According to sources close to the party’s internal deliberations, there is a widespread desire to “reframe” the Democrats’ image and approach in the coming years. Biden publicly praised Harris in a White House address last week, emphasizing her contributions and commitment to public service.
Trump’s Plans as He Prepares for the White House
As Biden and Harris honored the military on Veterans Day, President-elect Donald Trump, who will soon assume office, has been making early appointments for his incoming administration. Among his picks are individuals with a strong stance on immigration and national defense, such as Tom Homan, a hardline immigration official set to become the “border czar.” Trump has also selected conservative congresswoman Elise Stefanik as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, a move that signals a likely return to a more assertive U.S. position on global affairs under his leadership.
With Trump’s administration already taking shape, the nation watches as both sides prepare for a potentially contentious transition period. Democrats are seeking ways to address the factors that contributed to Harris’s defeat, exploring new avenues for the party’s future strategy. Many within the party believe a “reassessment” is necessary to meet the challenges of the current political landscape.
