Why Are President Biden's Approval Ratings Low Despite Positive Economic Indicators?

President Biden's approval ratings, despite the positive economic indicators in recent years, have not met expectations. There are numerous reasons behind this perceived disconnect, but several factors stand out as the most significant:

1. Public Confidence and Personal Appearance

One of the primary reasons for the low approval ratings is the lack of public confidence in President Biden. His limited public appearances and a tendency to stumble, get lost on stage, and lose his train of thought have led to concerns among the American public. The prolonged nature of his presidency, coupled with the earlier retirement age of many parents and grandparents, has made these concerns especially worrying. Viewers often question whether an oldest president in US history is capable of leading the nation effectively. This inconsistency in his performance can be attributed to physical or mental decline, which reassures few Americans.

2. Federal Spending and Inflation

The federal spending policies of the Biden administration have also contributed to a decline in public approval. Despite the post-COVID-19 era no longer requiring emergency measures, Democrats continued to push for increased spending, leading to a resurgence of inflation. Previous inflation rates in the early 1980s have been surpassed, with many Americans still feeling the financial strain. While the administration claims that the rate of new inflation has slowed, those with average or below-average incomes are more concerned about digesting the prior inflation. The constant reminders of the rising cost of goods, such as groceries and shopping at malls, have not yet subsided, making the situation more challenging for average Americans.

3. Lack of Crisis Response and Unity

The Biden administration has been criticized for its slow and inadequate response to various domestic and international crises. The line '80% of life is just showing up' applies well to the role of a president. Being present and acknowledging issues, even if immediate solutions are not apparent, can reassure the public. However, President Biden has not consistently shown up, and when he does, it is often too late for many. This absence of timely responses, combined with a lack of proactive measures, has undermined public trust.

4. Communication Gaffes and Political Attitudes

Another significant factor is the administration's communication strategy. Critics argue that Democrats often blame messaging issues rather than self-reflection on policy direction. This perspective becomes particularly relevant when policies do not align with the desires of the American people. While acknowledging that the Biden administration has made policy errors, it is equally pointed out that the communications team has been the worst in recent history. From an embarrassing press secretary to poor coordination within the administration to unforced errors, such as championing the term "Bidenomics" which has been weaponized by the opposing party, the administration's communication has consistently alienated parts of the population.

5. Lost Opportunities for Unity

President Biden's campaign centered on a theme of unity, promising to be a president for all Americans. However, his administration has taken a combative stance against perceived opponents, reminiscent of previous partisan rhetoric. This aggressive rhetoric, epitomized by comments like "basket of deplorables," alienates a significant portion of the population and detracts from the overarching goal of unity. Instead of fostering a more inclusive and collaborative environment, the administration has inadvertently contributed to further polarization.

In conclusion, while the Biden administration has achieved some positive economic outcomes, the low approval ratings reflect a complex interplay of factors. Addressing these issues with a renewed focus on effective communication, timely responses, and a more inclusive approach is crucial for improving his public perception and maintaining the trust of the American electorate.