Texas Sen. Ted Cruz has alleged that President Joe Biden is experiencing “schadenfreude” — a German word meaning satisfaction at the suffering of others — following Vice President Kamala Harris' loss to Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Cruz made the remarks during the latest episode of his Verdict podcast.
Cruz’s assertion is based on his observation of Biden’s demeanor in the wake of Harris’ defeat. He pointed to Biden’s public remarks, where he expressed a sense of optimism and assured the nation of a “peaceful transfer of power” following Trump’s inauguration. This, according to Cruz, contrasted with the “agony” displayed by many Democrats following Harris’ loss.
“We're going to wrap up by pointing out the one man in America on the Democrat side who is not sad, and who is actually full of joy,” Cruz said. “I'm not going to tell you his name, but it rhymes with Boe Jiden.”
Cruz’s co-host, Ben Ferguson, echoed this sentiment, noting that he had “never seen a bigger grin on – and we'll change his name – ever, even on days he thought [were] the best day of his life.” The comment referred to Biden’s speech at the White House Rose Garden, where he spoke about the importance of a peaceful transfer of power. While Biden’s speech was somber in tone, acknowledging the “hurt” felt by those in his administration, he was observed smiling several times during his address.
The Impact of Biden's 'Schadenfreude' on the Election
Cruz’s comments have sparked debate amongst political observers. Some Democrats have expressed agreement with Cruz’s sentiment, stating that Biden’s decision to stay in the race until July, without a primary process, contributed to Harris’ eventual defeat.
Democrats Blame Biden for Harris' Loss
Famed political strategist James Carville voiced this opinion, stating that the lack of a primary process created a “sense of dishonor” among the electorate. Carville argued that had there been an open process, the outcome of the election could have been different.
“By Biden staying in so late, we didn't have any process. We had all of this unused [talent] sitting on the sideline,” Carville said. “If we'd had some kind of an open process, it would have been much better. It could have been worse, but it could have been much better.”
Cruz's 'Schadenfreude' Ignites Debate
Cruz’s assertion of Biden’s “schadenfreude” has drawn criticism from those who view it as a partisan attack. However, some argue that Cruz’s remarks highlight the deep divisions that exist within the American electorate.
Political Polarization and its Impact
The political landscape in the United States has become increasingly polarized, with both Democrats and Republicans becoming more entrenched in their respective ideologies. This polarization can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding for opposing viewpoints, making it difficult to find common ground and resolve issues.
The 2024 election, which saw the defeat of Harris, a Democrat, and the victory of Trump, a Republican, further underscores the deep divisions within the country. This has fueled anxieties about the future of American democracy and the ability of politicians to govern effectively.
The Future of American Politics
The election results have raised questions about the future of American politics. While the outcome of the election may have been influenced by a variety of factors, the underlying polarization of the electorate is a significant concern. It is unclear whether and how these divisions can be bridged in the years to come.
The political landscape in the United States continues to evolve, and it remains to be seen how this will affect the future of the country. One thing is certain, however, the 2024 election has highlighted the deep divisions that exist within the American electorate, raising questions about the ability of politicians to govern effectively and navigate the challenges of a polarized nation.
This story will be updated.
