President Biden is set to deliver a commencement speech to the graduates of Morehouse College this Sunday, in an effort to connect with a demographic that is drifting away from him and towards his challenger, former President Donald J. Trump. The historically Black, all-male college in Georgia represents a key constituency that Mr. Biden will need to win over in order to secure his re-election in 2024.
During a preview speech to supporters in Atlanta, Mr. Biden emphasized the importance of the upcoming election as a choice between protecting democracy and letting its ideals backslide. He warned that his opponent, Mr. Trump, posed an “unhinged” threat to the future of the country and urged voters to support him in order to safeguard American democracy.
Following his address at Morehouse, Mr. Biden will travel to Detroit to speak at a dinner hosted by the N.A.A.C.P., highlighting his commitment to engaging with key voter groups. Recent polls have shown a decline in approval ratings among Black voters, prompting Mr. Biden to focus on reconnecting with this crucial demographic.
The visit to Morehouse has not been without controversy, as some faculty members, alumni, and students have voiced objections to Mr. Biden’s appearance, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The school’s president has warned that any disruptions during the commencement ceremony will not be tolerated, emphasizing the importance of allowing all participants to celebrate the graduates’ achievements.
As Mr. Biden seeks to increase his popularity among Black men, some Morehouse students and alumni are eager to hear him address the issues that have led to a sense of disengagement among this demographic. They hope that the president will acknowledge the challenges facing the community and outline his plans for addressing them.
Overall, Mr. Biden’s speech at Morehouse College represents a crucial opportunity for him to connect with a key voter group and make his case for re-election in 2024. By addressing the concerns and priorities of the Morehouse community, he aims to strengthen his support among Black voters and secure their crucial backing in the upcoming election.
