Biden Tries to Appease Progressives Before Reelection Campaign Announcement

President Joe Biden has been taking several actions lately to assure progressive voters of his agenda in light of his upcoming reelection campaign announcementnext week.

Biden’s first two years in office failed to deliver on critical issues for the progressive platform, including voting rights and codifying federal abortion access. He also garnered criticism from the left due to his flip-flops on COVID-era immigration policy and attempts to boost domestic oil production amidst historically high gas prices following the war in Ukraine.

Recently, Biden signed a suite of executive orders on Tuesday aimed at expanding the care economy, a critical part of his Build Back Better platform. The orders focused on reducing the cost of child care for families, expanding access to affordable long-term care solutions, and increasing wages and education opportunities for care workers.

Biden also convened the Major Economies Forum on Energy for the fourth time, where he discussed ways to decarbonize energy, reduce all climate pollutants, and advance carbon capture technology. He also signed an executive order on Friday afternoon that aimed to “revitalize” America’s commitment to advancing “environmental justice for all.”

Biden’s efforts to make progress have caused conflict among Democrats, with some saying he is “making good” on his campaign promises, while others claim that he has abandoned progressive voters in office.

Though a majority of Democrats believe the president should not seek 4 more years, 81% of the party would support him in the general election if he were to be nominated, according to a recent poll.

Progressive candidates are also challenging Biden this cycle. Marianne Williamson, a former 2020 candidate, launched her own campaign in March claiming that he had abandoned his progressive voters. Her poll numbers have surged, with double-digit support from Democrats.

Regardless, Biden’s executive orders are unlikely to make any significant headway on gun violence, an issue currently gaining traction.

The White House seemed unfazed by Williamson’s candidacy, responding to inquiries about attempts to outflank Biden on the left by saying they had nothing to share on the matter.