Joe Biden Triumphs in South Carolina Democratic Primary for Presidential Race
In a significant victory, President Joe Biden has once again secured the South Carolina Democratic primary, marking his first official win in the 2024 election season. Defeating opponents Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson with ease, Biden has garnered the state's endorsement for the presidential nomination.
The Associated Press reports, amidst a low voter turnout, that Biden clinched all 55 of South Carolina's Democratic delegates. Additionally, seven delegates pledged by party leaders and elected officials, including South Carolina's only Democratic congressman, Jim Clyburn. Phillips and Williamson failed to meet the 15% voting threshold required for delegate acquisition.
Biden's victory statement highlighted the crucial role of Black voters, who make up 26% of South Carolina's residents and form a significant part of the Democratic voting base. The President reiterated his commitment to all those "knocked down, counted out, and left behind," citing the creation of over 14 million jobs and a record low unemployment rate for Black Americans.
Reflecting on his 2020 victory, Biden credited the South Carolina voters for rejuvenating his campaign and setting him on the path to presidency. With their renewed support in 2024, he is confident of repeating his success and ensuring another defeat for Donald Trump.
The Democratic National Committee's recent reshuffling of the national election calendar designated South Carolina as the first official contest for the Democratic presidential nomination. This change highlights South Carolina's representation of the Democratic party's values and diversity.
Despite the expected victory of Biden in South Carolina, Democratic state representative Marvin Pendarvis emphasized the importance of voter turnout to maintain the state's "first in the nation" status.
South Carolina's open primaries allow any registered voter to participate, enabling the state's 3.3 million registered voters to have a say. The state's primaries have previously proven decisive, with Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden winning the 2016 and 2020 primaries, respectively.
The upcoming contest between former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley and former president Donald Trump in the Republican polls on 24 February is eagerly anticipated. Biden concluded his statement by warning against the "extreme and dangerous voices" seeking to divide the nation, and urged for continued progress.
News Agencies