MSNBC host Alex Wagner expressed concerns about President Biden facing a media “disadvantage” in the upcoming debates compared to his GOP rival, former President Trump. Wagner noted that the standard set for Biden to meet is much higher than the one for Trump. She pointed out that Biden is scrutinized for his age and mental fitness, while Trump’s rambling speeches are not given the same attention.
Wagner discussed a column by Susan Glasser, who highlighted Trump’s “incoherent rambles” as evidence of his decline, making him unfit for office. Glasser mentioned that Trump’s rally performances indicate a decline over the years, questioning his ability to hold office.
The media attention on Biden’s age and mental fitness was contrasted with the focus on Trump’s ability to stand and speak, with Jason Miller, a Trump campaign adviser, emphasizing Trump’s stamina during interviews and rallies. Wagner criticized the notion that simply standing and talking was enough to prove Trump’s competence, suggesting that the media scrutiny was heavier on Biden than on Trump.
As the first debate between Biden and Trump approached, Wagner and Glasser raised concerns about whether Biden could overcome this “structural disadvantage” in the media. Glasser highlighted the challenge for Biden, as Trump’s followers do not hold him accountable to the same standards as other public officials.
The discussion pointed towards the unequal treatment of the two candidates in the media, with Trump being judged differently due to his unique communication style and relationship with his supporters. This disparity in media scrutiny poses a challenge for Biden, who must navigate through higher expectations and criticisms.
In the lead-up to the debate, the focus on Biden’s performance and ability to meet the higher standards set for him in contrast to Trump’s treatment in the media remained a point of concern. The unequal scrutiny and expectations placed on the two candidates highlighted the complexities of the political landscape and the challenges faced by Biden in the upcoming debates.