Biden digital game outmatched by Trump a month into virtual race

Biden speaks during the 11th Democratic candidates debate of the 2020 US presidential campaign, held without an audience because of the global coronavirus pandemic, in Washington, US. Unlike rivals like Warren or Sanders who relied on innovative technology to reach supporters during the Democratic primary season, Biden ran a traditional campaign leveraging his name recognition, political contacts and skills in retail politics. As of last week, Biden has hired no new staff with expertise in digital politics, the campaign said, instead relying on existing aides. — Reuters

US President Donald Trump’s campaign boasts it needed just 24 hours to switch into virtual mode after coronavirus lockdowns ended his signature, high-energy rallies. For Joe Biden, who thrives on the personal connection of retail politics, the transition is taking much longer.

Trump’s digital operation dominates the digital space in no small part thanks to the presidential bully pulpit and his massive Twitter presence. But Biden, a month after the pandemic forced him off the trail, has yet to beef up his digital team and is still working to expand his outreach to quarantined voters.