Democratic governors are upset about Biden’s mistake with Putin and Zelenskyy, and how it might affect US leadership globally.
A day after President Biden mistakenly introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as “President Putin” at the NATO conference in Washington, D.C., Zelenskyy found himself in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he addressed the attendees of the National Governor’s Association (NGA) summer meeting. Zelenskyy described the ongoing conflict with Russia as “the most transparent battle between good and evil of our time,” praising the “American leadership” in response to what he termed as Russia’s “unprovoked and unjust aggression.”
During the NGA meeting, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, when asked about Biden’s mix-up, skillfully skirted the question by stating that he had been occupied with the conference and was not aware of the incident. Instead, Polis commended Zelenskyy for underlining the significance of standing up against aggression and the importance of supporting Ukraine without putting American lives at risk.
Voicing a united sentiment among the governors, Polis articulated the need to assist Ukraine in constructing more shelters at vital locations like schools and hospitals due to the indiscriminate attacks by Russia. He emphasized the necessity for global collaboration in countering such aggressive tactics, urging the governors to stand in solidarity against the perpetrators.
While Polis acknowledged the existing challenges faced by Democrats and Biden’s lag in the polls, he also expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, highlighting the importance of strategical adjustments to ensure success in November. Emphasizing the need to protect democracy and uphold the policies that have been instrumental over the past years, Polis encouraged a united front for the upcoming electoral battle.
Despite the political buzz surrounding Biden’s electability, Green, a fervent supporter of the President, attributed Biden’s strengths to his prompt response during crises, contrasting it with former President Trump’s approach. Green commended Biden’s dedication to public service and underscored the need for respecting leaders who have contributed significantly to the nation’s progress.
Amid discussions about rebuilding efforts in Ukraine and Hawaii, Governor Green highlighted the geopolitical implications of the Ukraine conflict on Hawaii due to Russia’s proximity and potential threats in the Pacific region. Stressing the importance of supporting Zelenskyy’s efforts for peace and stability, Green urged for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict, irrespective of the leadership in the U.S.
As the debate over Biden’s candidacy intensifies, Green emphasized the pivotal role of women voters and their stance on reproductive rights in influencing the upcoming election’s outcome. He posited that Biden’s approach to issues like abortion could sway a significant portion of women voters across party lines towards supporting the incumbent President.
The sentiments echoed by Governor Green at the NGA meeting encapsulate the multifaceted discussions surrounding international conflicts, electoral strategies, and the overarching need for unity and resilience in the face of global challenges. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the convergence of diverse perspectives and voices within the governors’ forum underscores the complexities and nuances shaping contemporary governance and decision-making.
