Summary: Less than a week before the American elections, the presidential campaign is marked by a new media incident. Joe Biden referred to Donald Trump’s supporters as “garbage,” a gaffe quickly exploited by the former president, who staged himself in a garbage truck to turn the situation to his advantage.
Uncertain electoral context
The vote on November 5 is approaching and remains extremely uncertain. The tension between the Democratic and Republican candidates is palpable, as every vote counts in the key states known as “swing states.” Both camps are not hesitant to exploit each other’s missteps to galvanize their supporters.
Joe Biden’s gaffe
During a recent speech, Joe Biden briefly referred to Trump supporters as “garbage” before attempting a correction. Although his spokesperson clarified that he was actually criticizing “hateful rhetoric,” this statement was perceived as a direct attack on nearly 250 million Americans sympathizing with the Republican camp. This mistake comes at a time when Kamala Harris is also trying to convey a message of unity to Americans.
The art of reversal in Trump
Donald Trump immediately took advantage of the president’s controversial remarks by staging a provocative scene. Surprised in a garbage truck displaying his political colors and wearing a fluorescent orange vest during a rally in Wisconsin, he stated: “This truck is in honor of Kamala and Joe Biden.” He is thus trying to turn this misstep to his advantage while rallying his supporters around the concept that their values are devalued by the opposing camp.
Reactions within the Democratic Party
Kamala Harris distanced herself from the words used by Biden, stating that she is deeply opposed to criticisms based on individuals’ political identity. However, this is not enough to calm the turbulence caused by this additional controversy that undermines their message in the crucial final days before the election.
A charged atmosphere for early voting
As more than 57 million Americans have already voted early or by mail — potentially reminding those who participated in previous historic elections — these incidents cast a shadow over the direction this major event is taking. Observers also note that if Donald Trump were to lose this round, he seems to be preparing his audience to contest any unfavorable outcome through various allegations of “massive cheating” in certain contested states such as Pennsylvania.
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