Biden’s Nomination Almost Certain, but Who Will Secure Second Place?
As the 2024 Democratic presidential race unfolds, it’s almost certain that President Joe Biden will secure the nomination. However, the battle for the second spot is heating up, with Marianne Williamson closely competing against fellow candidate Rep. Dean Phillips. These two non-incumbent Democrats stand out as the only contenders still in the running for the White House.
Marianne Williamson: A Notable Contender
Despite receiving fewer votes than Biden and Phillips in the recent New Hampshire primary on Jan. 23, Marianne Williamson saw a significant increase, securing 4% of the votes compared to her 2020 margin. The 71-year-old self-help author and former spiritual leader of Oprah Winfrey officially launched her White House bid in March 2023, aiming to challenge what she sees as an unsustainable status quo, causing hardship for the middle class and fostering hopelessness among Americans.
A Track Record of Social Impact
In 1998, Williamson founded Project Angel Food, a nonprofit providing free meals to sick residents in Los Angeles. Additionally, she co-founded the Peace Alliance in 2004, dedicated to mobilizing people for systemic and policy transformation toward a culture of peace.
Marianne Williamson’s Views on Key Issues
1. Climate Change
Williamson emphasizes the urgent need to address climate change denial. If elected, she commits to a comprehensive effort to achieve 100% renewable energy in the U.S. and reduce carbon emissions by 2035. Williamson advocates for redirecting fossil fuel subsidies to support wind and solar energy initiatives and vows to ban all fracking operations.
2. Crime & Policing
Labeling traditional crime-fighting efforts as ineffective, Williamson proposes a holistic approach that addresses underlying causes. She advocates for increased funding for social workers, ‘wraparound’ programs for children’s healthcare, and initiatives to repair the relationship between law enforcement and communities.
3. Education
Calling for free tuition for public college students, including historically Black colleges and universities, Williamson also supports free trade school tuition for certain professions. As president, she promises to forgive all federal and private student debt and end “high stakes” testing.
4. Economy
Williamson’s economic bill of rights for Americans includes the right to a living-wage job, affordable housing, and the eradication of poverty. She proposes a federal minimum wage increase to $15 per hour, closing tax loopholes for large corporations, and investing in care programs, drug pricing, and other common costs.
5. Foreign Policy
In an innovative move, Williamson proposes the creation of a U.S. Department of Peace, focusing on conflict resolution, humanitarian assistance, and collaboration with the U.S. Military Academy. She aims to shift the current wartime economy to a peacetime one, involving investments in schools, infrastructure, and more.
6. Health Care
Williamson supports a Medicare for All-type healthcare system, advocating for negotiations with drug companies to lower prescription drug prices. Beyond this, she promotes a “Whole Health Plan,” prioritizing holistic health and wellness initiatives, including nutrition, exercise, and addressing environmental pollution.
Marianne Williamson emerges as a noteworthy contender in the Democratic presidential race, bringing a unique perspective and a comprehensive platform addressing critical issues facing the nation. As the primaries progress, the competition for the second spot intensifies, and Williamson remains a candidate to watch.