Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA) has openly criticized the Democratic Party’s 2024 election strategy, specifically targeting President Joe Biden’s decision to seek re-election. Huffman’s remarks reflect growing frustration within the party following significant losses in the presidential race and the Senate.
A Call for Change
Speaking on Politico’s “Playbook Deep Dive” podcast, Huffman did not hold back in expressing his dissatisfaction with Biden’s decision to run for a second term. “Joe Biden should not have run for re-election. It’s not unkind or uncharitable to acknowledge that he just shouldn’t have done it,” Huffman stated. “Even by starting down that path, he set us back tremendously.”
Huffman had previously voiced concerns about Biden’s capacity to serve another term, especially after a widely scrutinized debate performance in June that raised questions about his mental acuity. Huffman was one of the first congressional Democrats to suggest that Biden step aside, advocating for a new leader to take the reins of the party.
Criticism of Party Leadership
Huffman’s critique extends beyond Biden himself, taking aim at the Democratic Party’s broader handling of the 2024 election cycle. He expressed frustration over the party’s suppression of internal challenges, including a primary bid by Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN). Many party leaders closed ranks around Biden, stifling opportunities for alternative candidates to emerge.
“The party failed to engage in an honest conversation about the challenges we faced with President Biden as our candidate,” Huffman said. “That decision cost us dearly in the general election.”
Post-Election Fallout
The Democratic Party’s losses in 2024—culminating in the presidency and the Senate flipping to Republican control—have triggered intense introspection among members. Huffman’s comments echo a sentiment shared by some within the party that the leadership’s failure to address Biden’s vulnerabilities earlier in the campaign contributed to the election outcomes.
While Huffman acknowledges the president’s accomplishments during his first term, he emphasized the importance of recognizing when it is time to pass the torch. “Biden’s leadership brought important victories, but the realities of the campaign trail required a different approach,” he noted.
Looking Ahead
Huffman’s remarks underscore a growing demand for change within the Democratic Party as it regroups following the 2024 losses. Many members are pushing for a reevaluation of the party’s leadership and strategic priorities ahead of the next election cycle.
As the Democratic Party navigates this period of transition, Huffman’s blunt assessment serves as a rallying cry for those advocating for fresh leadership and a renewed focus on connecting with voters. Whether these calls for change will result in a significant shift remains to be seen, but the conversation within the party is unlikely to fade anytime soon.