Biden's Political Strategy: Navigating Republican Obstructionism
No policy matters unless it gets passed. How will Joe Biden navigate a Republican Party that opposes him in viewpoint and as a political maneuver?
Biden has shown an unwillingness to invoke the "nuclear option" and eliminate the filibuster, and budget reconciliation is a limited tool though useful for COVID-19 stimulus. He embraces compromise, negotiation, and concessions, as part of his institutionalist orientation; yet, there is an inherent tension between bipartisanship and getting things done. Some practical issues might be dealt with, but a 50-50 Senate will not allow most progressive policies or any reforms to the democratic system. So, rather than finding away to override opposition, Biden is trying to use it to his advantage; for example, it gives him more control over the Democratic Party. By taking a step back from the spotlight and portraying Republicans as obstructionists opposing popular legislation like the $1.9 trillion stimulus bill, he is putting moderates in a tough spot: either work with the administration, or risk being on the wrong side of the public. This also builds trust in policy and bureaucracy.
Sometimes, being passive is the best way to be active in legislation.