Biden Seeks South Carolina Victory to Bolster Presidential Nomination Bid

US President Joe Biden is eyeing a decisive win in South Carolina's presidential primary, marking the official launch of the Democratic Party's nomination process. His campaign received a boost last month when he emerged victorious in an unsanctioned primary in New Hampshire, despite not appearing on the ballot, as reported by The Guardian. Biden faces minimal competition, with the Associated Press indicating overwhelming support for him over opponents like Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips and self-help author Marianne Williamson.

South Carolina now holds the leadoff spot in the Democratic primary, replacing Iowa after a lengthy and sometimes contentious process. Biden had advocated for this change and also successfully pushed for Nevada to follow South Carolina's primary three days later. Michigan, a crucial swing state, has been moved to February 27 in the new primary calendar, preceding Super Tuesday on March 5, when numerous states vote.

Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized the importance of South Carolina in the primary, saying, "South Carolina, you are the first primary in the nation, and President Biden and I are counting on you." Biden and First Lady Jill Biden have actively campaigned in the state, aiming to secure the support of Black voters, who played a pivotal role in his 2020 election victory.

Black voters in South Carolina have cited various reasons for backing Biden, including his defense of abortion rights, diverse judicial appointments, and concerns over former President Donald Trump's threat to democracy. While some express concerns about Biden's age, his South Carolina win could help alleviate doubts, as he and Trump are both in their 70s. The Democratic establishment and potential presidential contenders have rallied behind Biden, further solidifying his candidacy.