Impact of the 2020 primaries on the Democratic Party's image

[Pres Mike]

I kinda think the primaries helped Biden. He ran towards the center and helped distance himself from more out there positions of the Democrats when he ran in the general.

But for the party as a whole? I honestly don't know.

I'm sure there were a few Biden-Republican voters who just wanted Trump out. But did they vote Republican down ballot because they are normally republican? Or did they want a check for Biden? A check on Biden or the Democrats as a whole? Impossible to say.

[Pres Mike]

For me it was my exit moment, and the field was generally pathetic.  Also, completely pointless as Barack Obama chose the nominee.  Could have saved everyone a lot of time.

Positive overall, because it's a good thing if more people turn on the Democrats.   Negative for their image, no doubt.

Agree on everything except for Obama picking the nominee

Biden was the only one who could consalate  the moderates. He was the only acceptable choice that could beat Biden. Obama calling the other moderates and reminding them this isn't picking the nominee.

I voted for Sanders. I don't think the 2016 primaries were fair. But in 2020, I acknowledged that more Democrats clearly wanted Biden over Sanders. Can't say the same for Bloomberg, Klobuchar, Pete, Beto, Harris etc.

Obama pointing the obvious isn't playing kingmaker.