President Joe Biden, in a bid to solidify his support among Black Americans, delivered a powerful speech at St. John Baptist Church on Sunday. He praised the Black American church’s role in shaping the nation and its contribution to the civil rights movement.
“Black churches provide us with a vision of a promised land, a dream of overcoming adversity, and a push towards a more perfect union,” said Biden. “Your contributions to the nation and the world are invaluable.”
The President’s visit to South Carolina, a state known for its loyal Biden supporters, comes amidst a period of low polling numbers, criticism from his own party over his handling of the Israel-Gaza conflict, and the looming influence of his predecessor on congressional negotiations.
While South Carolina is not expected to be a battleground state for Democrats in the upcoming November elections, the primary next Saturday will serve as a litmus test for Biden’s appeal among Black voters. These voters played a crucial role in Biden’s 2020 primary victory and his subsequent nationwide win in November.
However, there are indications of waning support. Black pastors have increasingly called for a ceasefire in Gaza, echoing the sentiments of protesters at Biden’s campaign events. Recent polls also suggest a decline in support for Biden among Black voters, particularly Black men.
The President and Vice President Kamala Harris have made multiple trips to South Carolina in recent weeks, highlighting the campaign’s understanding of the importance of Black voters. Biden spent two days in Columbia appealing to the state’s diverse electorate, visiting local establishments and contrasting his administration with that of former President Donald Trump.
At a party dinner celebrating the state’s primary, Biden launched several attacks on Trump, criticizing his handling of the economy, the pandemic, and his treatment of US veterans. He contrasted these with his own achievements, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience.
While acknowledging economic progress, particularly for communities of color, Biden criticized Trump’s recent comments predicting an economic crash. “It’s un-American,” Biden said, “Donald Trump knows this economy is good and strong and getting stronger. He knows that while it’s good for America, it’s bad for him politically.”
Representative Jim Clyburn, South Carolina’s only Democratic member of Congress and a top Biden ally, praised the President’s efforts in improving conditions for communities of color. He cited repairs to major highways, reducing the cost of insulin, and relieving student loan debt as examples of Biden’s achievements.
Despite these efforts, Biden’s campaign recognizes the need to further engage with Black communities. The campaign is investing in targeted ads and grassroots organizing. South Carolina resident Jonnieka Farr warned, “Black voters will definitely turn out. But don’t take our vote for granted, either.”