“Biden Triumphs in South Carolina: First Win Signals Support from Crucial Black Voters”
President Biden secured victory in the South Carolina Democratic primary on Saturday, marking the first official nominating contest for the party. This win was widely anticipated, given Biden’s incumbency, and it serves as a crucial message to Black voters, a significant part of the Democratic base.
Biden actively supported the move to place South Carolina’s primary at the forefront of the party’s calendar, ahead of Iowa and New Hampshire. While not a state expected to be won in the general election, elevating its primary emphasizes the Democratic Party’s recognition of the importance of Black voters.
In a statement on Saturday night, Biden reiterated his commitment to placing the backbone of the Democratic Party at the forefront. He acknowledged the historical significance, stating, “When I was elected President, I said the days of the backbone of the Democratic Party being at the back of the line were over. That was a promise made and a promise kept. Now, you are First In The Nation.”
Skipping the unsanctioned New Hampshire primary, Biden still won after voters wrote in his name. However, these results won’t count toward his official nomination at the party’s convention.
South Carolina holds a special place in Biden’s political journey, as it played a pivotal role in revitalizing his struggling 2020 campaign. Black voters constitute around 60% of the state’s Democratic electorate, making their support crucial.
Reflecting on his 2020 triumph in South Carolina, Biden expressed confidence in the state’s importance for the 2024 elections. The Biden campaign sees South Carolina as a strategic launching pad for his reelection bid, dedicating resources to connect with voters. Campaign activities ranged from barbershop visits to luncheons at Black churches, showcasing a commitment to engaging with the diverse communities that shape the state’s political landscape.
The presence of Vice President Harris and First Lady Jill Biden at events in South Carolina further underlines the significance the Biden administration places on connecting with Black voters. As South Carolina once again speaks, Biden sees it as a decisive step toward winning the presidency and, in his words, making Donald Trump a “loser” once more.**
