Biden slammed after surprise defeat to little-known entrepreneur in American Samoa Democratic caucuses

WASHINGTON, DC: In an unexpected turn of events on Super Tuesday, March 5, President Joe Biden faced a minor setback as he lost the American Samoa Democratic caucuses to entrepreneur Jason Palmer.

Although it had minimal political ramifications, the upset drew attention as Palmer secured victory over the incumbent president in the territory's caucuses.

Confirming Palmer's victory, the local Democratic Party chair revealed to ABC News on Tuesday night, amid a turnout of fewer than 100 votes between both candidates.

With 99% of the expected vote counted, Palmer emerged triumphant with 56% of the vote, while Biden trailed with 44%.

The Associated Press reported that out of the 91 votes cast, Biden secured 40, while Palmer claimed 51, thus earning four delegates to the Democratic National Convention.

This outcome marks Biden's first defeat in the ongoing nominating race. However, it does not significantly alter his commanding lead overall, positioning him for a potential general election rematch against former President Donald Trump.

Palmer's background and platform

According to his candidate website, the entrepreneur touts a rich background, with experience in executive and leadership positions at prominent institutions such as Microsoft, Kaplan Education, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the impact investor firm New Markets Venture Partners.

Leveraging his experience, Palmer presented himself as a "problem solver" in the presidential race, advocating for the establishment of a new Department of Innovation and Technology.

"I kept waiting for someone with a business background to join the race. When they didn’t, I decided to run based on my strong business background," Palmer stated last year, as quoted by MarketWatch.

"Palmer brings twenty-five years of experience in small business and multi-partisan fluency to his political endeavors," his website states, adding, "As an education technology entrepreneur, executive, and investor, he offers rare levels of expertise." 

Palmer has also articulated stances on various policy issues. He has called for a ramp-up in federal government technology efforts, urged for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip, and demanded an end to US military aid to Israel until a pause in the conflict between Israel and Hamas materializes.

On immigration, Palmer advocates for a path to citizenship for Dreamers while advocating for stricter measures for illegal border crossers.

In a conversation with Politico earlier this year, Palmer stressed the importance of generational representation in leadership.

Citing the ages of Biden and Trump compared to his own, he stressed the need for a president who understands the concerns of young people and believes in more frequent updates to the country's laws.

"It's super important that the next president of the United States be someone who really understands young people," Palmer told the outlet. "We need to pass the torch to a new generation of Americans."

Following his victory in American Samoa, Palmer expressed gratitude to his supporters.

“Thank you to the incredible community for your support,” he wrote on X. “This win is a testament to the power of our voices. Together, we can rebuild the American Dream and shape a brighter future for all.”

Social media reacts to Biden's loss 

However, a Biden campaign spokesperson downplayed the loss, saying, "There are unique politics on the island."

Despite the political insignificance of the outcome, social media buzzed with reactions, with many expressing amusement at Biden's defeat.

"Now that’s pathetic," one posted on X.

"This is hilarious," another chimed in.

"Wonder if Biden losing American Samoa is a result of Maui and not because of some ad from J Palmer ???" someone else wondered.

"American Samoa gets it!" a comment read.

"Congratulations to American Samoa for being smarter Democrats than any US state!" another added.

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