Since 1952, how many times has an incumbent president had a notable primary challenger?
Critical Analysis
Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, any links below, and your knowledge of American government and politics:
There are sometimes very minor primary challenges to incumbent presidents, but it’s rare for a serious primary challenge to take place from within the president’s party. Since World War II, how many times has an incumbent president had a notable primary challenger?
What was the most common reason for a primary challenge?
How many of those challengers won election?
Why do you think incumbents don’t usually have notable primary challengers?
On Friday, Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, who according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune has a net worth of over $50 million, announced a 2024 presidential campaign, arguing that while Biden "has done a spectacular job" as president, the party "needs to look to the future" to ensure it can defeat former President Donald Trump. Do you think Dean Phillips will win?
Some argue that there are more reasons to run than just to win. Representative Phillips has voted with President Biden 100% of the time, and says that while Biden "has done a spectacular job" as president, the party "needs to look to the future" to ensure it can defeat former President Donald Trump. The chart above says Phillips is running for reasons of “Age/Electability”. Why do you think Dean Phillips is running?
Dean Phillips sort of looks like Harrison Ford with an extra nose. Who will most benefit from a Dean Phillips primary challenge?
Dean Phillips is squaring off against Joe Biden, who’s sitting on $91 million in campaign cash, a 78% approval rating by members of the Democratic party, with the entire party machinery arrayed behind him. Describe the advantages an incumbent president has in campaigns.
A “Dean Phillips for President” bus, seen recently driving around New Hampshire. Explain why Dean Phillips is campaigning in New Hampshire.
“I’ve got respect for Phillips knowing what the price he might pay,” New Hampshire House Speaker Steve Shurtleff said. “By challenging the president, for someone like Dean, it could be the end of his political career.” Do you think this is the start or the ending of Dean Phillip’s political career?
Learning Extension
Read this Five Thirty Eight Story: The curious case of Dean Phillips's last-minute primary challenge.
Act on your Learning
Contact the White House and let President Joe Biden know what you think he should do about Dean Phillips.
Or call the White House at phone number:
1-202-456-1414 (Switchboard)
1-202-456-1111 (Comments)
Additionally, the U.S. Capitol Switchboard operator can also connect you directly with your U.S. House Representative Dean Phillips’ office.
1-202)-224-3121 (Switchboard)
Or tweet Dean Phillips at @deanbphillips and tell him what’s up.
