We are a polarized nation, and as such, the actual candidates themselves hardly matter anymore. We could nominate a mealworm, and it would get numbers similar to these, according to the latest general-election matchup poll by Quinnipiac University:
Biden 53, Trump 40
Sanders 51, Trump 42
Harris 49, Trump 41
Warren 49, Trump 42
Buttigieg 47, Trump 42
Booker 47, Trump 42
The key here isn’t the Democrats’ number (those are mostly driven by name recognition): it’s Trump’s. He’s maxed out at 42%. And with universal name recognition and a polarized electorate, how does he rise above that?
Of course, we don’t have a national election, but he barely squeaked through with a 3% popular-vote deficit in 2016. Even 4% down makes an Electoral College victory near impossible. Five percent or more? Forget it.
Meanwhile, Texas is competitive (thanks Beto!), while states like Pennsylvania and Michigan and Wisconsin look increasingly good for us. While this will still be a brutally difficult fight, it’s better to be us than him.
Also, in general, it’s always better to be us than him.
Bottom line? Support whoever you like, and not because you think someone will or won’t run better against Trump.