Joe Biden is back in the headlines, and this time it’s not about classified documents or gaffes. In a recent interview, the former president didn’t mince words—he claims that if he had run in the 2024 election, he would’ve beaten Donald Trump. Yes, you read that right. The man who exited the Oval Office with record-low approval ratings is confident he could’ve taken down the MAGA movement in a hypothetical matchup. Let’s break it down.

Biden’s remarks came during a sit-down where he reflected on his presidency, the state of the Democratic Party, and, of course, Donald Trump. “If I had been on that ballot, I’d have won. No question about it,” Biden reportedly said. The statement was delivered with his trademark mix of self-assurance and old-school charm, but it raises some serious eyebrows. After all, this is the same Joe Biden whose policies on inflation, energy, and border security had voters fleeing the Democratic camp in droves.

So where does this confidence come from? According to Biden, his ability to “unite the country” and his experience in handling global crises set him apart. “The American people know I stand for decency, respect, and diplomacy,” he added. But here’s the kicker—poll after poll has shown that Biden’s brand of leadership was losing traction with key voter groups long before he left office. Swing-state independents, suburban moms, and even some blue-collar Democrats—many had already made the shift toward Trump’s America First agenda. It seems Biden may be living in a political fantasyland where 2020 never ended.

But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: Trump’s own polarizing presence. The 2024 election wasn’t exactly smooth sailing for the former president, with lawsuits, media attacks, and a relentless political machine working against him. Yet, Trump managed to rally his base and secure his victory with a message that resonated deeply—strength, independence, and a no-nonsense approach to governance. Does Biden honestly believe he could’ve done better against that?

Critics of Biden’s claim have been quick to point out the flaws. “It’s easy to say you would’ve won when you didn’t have to actually run,” quipped one conservative commentator. And they’re not wrong. Campaigning against Trump is no walk in the park. His rallies draw thousands, his message cuts through the noise, and his policies—whether you love or hate them—speak to the frustrations of millions of Americans. Biden, on the other hand, struggled with lackluster enthusiasm even among his own party.

There’s also the age factor. At 82, Biden would’ve faced the same scrutiny over his physical and cognitive fitness that plagued him during his presidency. The campaign trail isn’t kind to anyone, let alone someone who often seems to forget which state he’s in. Meanwhile, Trump, though also in his late seventies, brings an energy that rivals candidates half his age. It’s no wonder Republicans are skeptical of Biden’s claim.

What’s more, Biden’s assertion highlights a broader issue within the Democratic Party: a lack of viable leadership. If Biden believes he’s still the best bet to take on Trump, what does that say about the bench strength of the Democrats? It’s a party grappling with internal fractures, from progressive-socialist infighting to centrist Democrats who feel alienated by woke policies. Biden’s confidence might not just be misplaced—it might be an indictment of his party’s current state.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Biden’s claim that he would’ve beaten Trump is bold, maybe even laughable, depending on your perspective. It’s a reflection of the hubris that often accompanies politicians after they leave office. But it’s also a reminder of the deep divides in American politics—and the fact that, love him or hate him, Donald Trump remains a formidable opponent.

As for Joe Biden, perhaps he should focus less on hypotheticals and more on his legacy. Because whether he could’ve beaten Trump or not, one thing is clear: the political world has moved on, even if he hasn’t.