Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Pete Buttigieg, who was Transportation Secretary under President Joe Biden, expressed concerns that Biden’s choice to “probably” run for reelection in 2024 has negatively impacted Democrats. During a recent visit to Iowa, he alluded to the idea that Democrats might have fared better if Biden had chosen not to seek a second term, stating, “In hindsight, I think most people would agree.”
Buttigieg’s remarks followed a town hall event in eastern Iowa. His comments about Biden came from a preview of a new book titled “The Original Crime: The Decline of President Biden, Its Coverup, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again.”
Biden had exited the White House race last July, and shortly after, a poor debate performance against Donald Trump led to calls from within the Democratic Party for him to abandon his reelection efforts. He was eventually replaced at the top of the ticket by Kamala Harris.
When probed about Biden’s cognitive state, Buttigieg remarked, “Every time I needed something from him from the West Wing, I got it.” He reminisced about their collaboration during a crisis involving the Baltimore Bridge, commenting that Biden recognized their efforts positively.
Buttigieg notably won the Iowa Presidential Caucus in 2020 and secured second place in New Hampshire prior to Biden’s rise to the nomination and victory in the presidential election. However, the Democratic National Committee has since downplayed Iowa’s significance in the 2024 primary schedule.
Buttigieg’s visit to Iowa has been interpreted as a signal of his potential interest in a presidential run in 2028. Earlier this year, he announced he wouldn’t pursue a Democratic candidacy for an open Senate seat in Michigan, hinting his focus may be on the national stage instead.
In a live interview, Buttigieg said he would consider what he could bring to the table for a 2028 campaign. Reflecting on the support he received previously, he acknowledged it means a lot to hear from those who might back him again.
The Cedar Rapids town hall event, organized by a progressive group focused on veterans and military families, attracted approximately 1,800 attendees, emphasizing Buttigieg’s continued influence and connection with constituents.
