Glitter & Gold

HARRIS DROPS OUT OF BIDEN REELECTION CAMPAIGN Vice President Cites Health Concerns, Need to Spend Time with Family WASHINGTON D.C. — In a stunning turn of events, Vice President Kamala Harris announced she would be withdrawing from the Democratic ticket as presumptive vice presidential nominee. In a statement announcing her decision issued Friday afternoon, Harris revealed that White House physicians had diagnosed her with severe hypertension and arrhythmia. "Because the immense challenges we face as this country require the full energies of my office, I have decided not to run for reelection," Vice President Harris said. "While I am disappointed that I will not be on the ticket this fall, I look forward eagerly to campaigning for President Biden and spending more time with my family once my term is complete in January of 2025." Harris' surprising decision marks the end of a historic albeit mixed tenure as Vice President. The first female, African American, and Asian American vice president, Harris' time at the Naval Observatory was groundbreaking. While she has received praise for her passionate defense of reproductive rights and concern for many issues relating to the economy and beyond, she has also been the subject of considerable criticism for her handling of the border and unpopularity with white working-class voters. This news comes as Democrats try and make up ground with former President Donald Trump in the polls. RealClearPolitics average shows Trump with a 2.3% lead over President Biden. "Losing Kamala Harris presents new obstacles for Biden, but also some opportunities," Tara Palmeri of Puck wrote. "She's an unpopular vice president who many Democrats were wary of turning to if Biden had decided to pass on reelection. However, she was still beloved among women and the Black and Asian-American community for her record of fighting for their interests. Replacing her will not be easy. But it could open some potential opportunities for rising stars in the Democratic Party. The Biden campaign is reportedly reassembling its V.P. vetting team from 2020 with former Senator Chris Dodd running the search. "There are many highly qualified individuals out there who we are excited to get to know," said Dodd when asked by Manu Raju of CNN. "Who knows? It could be a surprise."

BIDEN VS. TRUMP II Q1, 2024 WASHINGTON D.C.— In the words of Yogi Berra, "It's like déjà vu all over again." After less than two months of primary campaigning, President Joe Biden is set to square off with former President Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election as both parties prepare for a rematch of the 2020 contest. An outcome that felt equal parts inevitable and unbelievable, Biden vs Trump II presents a myriad of challenges and opportunities for both sides. While Biden has racked up numerous legislative achievements in the last four years, concerns about inflation, border security, and the 46th President's age have dogged his campaign. On the other hand, Trump remains a highly polarizing individual with four criminal trials clouding out any rosy nostalgia for the relatively rosy performance of the economy during his tenure. Polling shows that Trump holds a narrow 2% lead over Biden nationwide. This has triggered alarm bells for many in Democratic circles, but others are urging calm. "President Biden knows what he's doing. He beat Trump last time, he'll beat him again in November," Lawrence O'Donnell of MSNBC said. "Just put them on a debate stage and watch what happens." In spite of these reassurances, most Americans are indifferent or dismayed at the rerun of the last election. "This is not the contest that most Americans wanted. But they are unfortunately the only choices the voters have," Larry J. Sabato said. "A historically controversial former president whose actions and behavior in office landed him in legal trouble. And an aging incumbent whose long list of achievements does not seem to resonate with voters. Sure, each party has its sycophants who are thrilled at the rematch. But most voters are not enthralled." Indeed, voter enthusiasm remains relatively low for both sides with Republicans holding a small advantage. Among registered voters, Republican enthusiasm stands at 52% while Democrats are hovering at around 43%. "It is concerning for both sides," Donna Brazile said. "Democrats have to find some way to make young people excited about the upcoming election. And Republicans need to make Trump of all people seem like the steady, more agreeable alternative. Good luck to both sides with that." Gallup Polling:

Tour Name: American Stories Artist: Aloysius "Mud" Devadander Abercrombie City/County: Jefferson County (AL) - Birmingham, Hoover Song #1: As the Wind Song #2: Do Better Than Me Song #3: This Broken World View full gig