Thank You, Joe

After three agonizing weeks, Joe Biden did this country a huge favor by dropping out of the presidential race. Democrats should unite to praise the grace, dignity, and courage with which he withdrew

There’s been an outpouring of affection and even sorrow over his decision, but he did the right, patriotic, and politically wise thing.   With this poll numbers falling and a media clamoring for him to leave, it was virtually impossible for him to win.  

Even before the debate, Dems needed a dramatic event to shift the momentum in their favor.  They just got it.  Kamala’s ascension makes this a whole new ball game and gives Democrats a decent chance now.

Of course, there’ll still be calls for an open convention, but Kamala’s the obvious - and so far anointed - pick.  The other possible candidates have smartly backed down.  It could be a unified convention with the only drama being the choice of VP. They’ve got lots of talent but Admiral William McRaven might be the best pick - if he wants it.

Democrats seem reinvigorated.  Kamala’s had her issues in the past, but she’s a much better candidate than she was, she’s been a good soldier, and she’s qualified.  There’s something poetic about the idea and the chances of a prosecutor going against a convict.

Some people feel Joe was betrayed by his fellow Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi, but that’s nonsense. The only betrayal of Joe was his age.   Democrats must avoid their propensity to find the dark cloud behind every silver lining.

Joe has enhanced his legacy as a damn good president, a patriotic, and a statesman.  Democrats should unite behind Kamala, wish Joe success through the last months of his presidency, and hope he can campaign even more strongly for her than he did for himself.