President Joe Biden is experiencing a decline in his black voter base. This could be due to various factors such as his response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, the significant economic challenges faced by many Americans leading them to seek additional work, or his efforts to prohibit menthol cigarettes.

Consequently, black Americans are reconsidering their support for the Democratic incumbent. The potential implications for Biden in the upcoming 2024 election are evident. Even a slight decrease in a demographic traditionally loyal to Democrats could have serious consequences. This situation is creating an opportunity for former President Donald Trump, who garnered 8 percent of the black vote in 2016 and increased to 12 percent in 2020.

Despite facing accusations of racism from Democrats throughout his political career, a recent New York Times/Siena poll showed that he has gained 16 percent support from black voters. During a recent visit to Pennsylvania, his home state, there were reports of two black men displaying signs supporting Trump rather than Biden upon the latter’s arrival in Pittsburgh.

During an event in Scranton, Biden acknowledged the challenges he is up against by sharing encounters with “F*** Biden” signs and a child making an obscene gesture. “I promise, it happens all the time,” he said.

Amidst the negative reception he received on his journey home, characterized by offensive gestures and angry signs, it may be prudent for Biden to permanently abandon his worn-out claim of being from Scranton. This repetitive narrative is proving ineffective in garnering support, regardless of race.

Furthermore, the substantial amount of money allocated by his campaign to secure black support does not seem to be yielding the desired results. CBS News reports that, as part of a $30 million advertising campaign in March, multiple ads were specifically tailored to target Black voters in crucial states.

Perhaps these funds could have been better utilized if Biden had prioritized addressing the concerns of black Americans since assuming office. Unfortunately, the unemployment rate among black individuals rose to 6.4 percent in March, reaching its highest level since August 2022. In contrast, the unemployment rate for white individuals remained stable at 3.4 percent, while it decreased for Asians and Hispanics to 2.5 percent and 4.5 percent, respectively.