Opinion
Democrats in Crisis: Biden’s Doom Looms, and the Shocking Lack of Plan B Spells Disaster!
Introduction
The Democratic Party is hurtling towards the political iceberg of 2024, its once sturdy vessel now riddled with leaks and its captain, President Joe Biden, looking increasingly frail at the helm. Biden’s re-election prospects are as thin as ice on a summer day, and the Democrats, seemingly paralyzed by fear and inertia, offer no lifeboats, let alone a Plan B, to weather the coming storm.
A Titanic Trajectory: Echoes of 1968 and the Looming Precipice
History whispers cautionary tales. In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson, facing similar levels of unpopularity and party disarray amidst the Vietnam War and social unrest, made the fateful decision to step aside. The ensuing chaos nearly tore the Democratic Party apart, a cautionary parable etched in history but seemingly forgotten in the face of today’s crisis.
Biden’s poll numbers are a Titanic on its way to an iceberg, trailing Donald Trump by margins that would make even the most ardent Democrat blanch. The Economist’s tracker and RealClearPolitics paint a grim picture, with Trump’s lead solidifying by the day. Biden’s age and health fuel whispers of doubt, further eroding public confidence.
Apathy on the Campaign Trail: Enthusiasm Gap and Rumors of a One-Term Presidency
Meanwhile, the 2024 campaign trail resembles a tepid waltz compared to Trump’s electrifying mosh pit. Enthusiasm is a scarce commodity in the Biden camp, his rallies echoing with the muted applause of duty, not fervent devotion. Rumours of a one-term presidency, once mere speculation, now hold the weight of grim prophecy.
Shifting Sands: Demographic Changes and the Erosion of Bedrock Support
Adding fuel to the fire are shifting demographics and partisan allegiances. Hispanic and African-American voters, once Democratic bedrock, are showing signs of straying, their disenchantment with economic stagnation and rising crime finding fertile ground in Trump’s populist rhetoric.
Paralysis by Analysis: The Absence of Plan B and the Shrinking Primary Window
Yet, the Democrats appear frozen in the headlights of this oncoming calamity. Internal anxieties about Biden’s candidacy abound, but the fear of splitting the party trumps the instinct for self-preservation. The window for a primary challenge is rapidly shrinking, each missed deadline in key states tightening the noose around the party’s throat.
A House of Cards: The Potential Fallout of Biden’s Demise
Should Biden fall, the Democrats could be plunged into a maelstrom of internal strife. Contested conventions, party rule rewrites, and bitter infighting loom large, potentially fracturing the party beyond repair.
Kamala Harris: Heir Apparent or Lightning Rod?
Kamala Harris, the presumed heir apparent, inherits a poisoned chalice, her public image a mosaic of conflicting opinions. Can she unite a fractured party and inspire the base, or will she become another casualty in the Democrats’ political shipwreck?
A Looming Abyss: The Democrats’ Precarious Tightrope Walk
Biden’s current standing is a testament to the perilous tightrope the Democrats are walking. They cling to the hope of his achievements, the infrastructure bills and economic glimmers, but the lack of a Plan B hangs heavy in the air, a spectre of defeat looming like a thundercloud.
Time for a Course Correction: Embracing the Unthinkable and Forging a New Path
The Democrats stand at a crossroads, staring into the abyss with no map and a dwindling fuel supply. The time for wishful thinking and blind optimism is over. To avert disaster, they must confront the harsh reality of their situation, acknowledge the flaws in their plan, and embrace the unthinkable: finding a new path, even if it means leaving Biden behind. The alternative is a political Götterdämmerung, a twilight of the Democratic Party from which they may never recover.
Conclusion: A Stark Reminder and a Call to Action
The Democrats’ perilous predicament serves as a stark reminder: no party, no matter how entrenched, is impervious to the tides of political change. Without a bold course correction, without a Plan B forged in the fires of reality, they risk becoming a footnote in history, a cautionary tale of hubris and unpreparedness.
The clock is ticking, the abyss beckons and the Democrats’ fate hangs in the precarious balance of their next move. Choose wisely, Democrats, for the future of your party, and perhaps the nation rests on your decision.
A Note on Hope and the Possibility of Renewal
While the current landscape may appear bleak, it is important to remember that political fortunes can shift quickly. The Democrats have faced adversity before, and they have emerged stronger. Just remember the 2016 election, when Hillary Clinton’s defeat seemed inevitable, only for the party to rebound in 2018 and gain control of the House of Representatives.
The key to the Democrats’ future lies in their ability to learn from their mistakes, adapt to changing circumstances, and unite behind a common vision. This means confronting the harsh realities of the current situation, including Biden’s weaknesses and the lack of a viable Plan B. It also means being open to new ideas and strategies, even if they challenge the status quo.
Emerging Voices and the Future of the Democratic Party
One source of hope for the Democrats is the emergence of a new generation of young, progressive leaders. These individuals are not beholden to the past, and they are unafraid to challenge the party’s traditional assumptions. They represent a fresh perspective and a new wave of energy that could be just what the Democrats need to overcome their current challenges.
Some of the most prominent figures in this new generation include Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ayanna Pressley, and Ilhan Omar. These women have captured the imagination of young voters and have given the Democratic Party a much-needed shot of adrenaline.
However, it is important to note that the path to renewal will not be easy. The Democrats face a deep-seated division between their moderate and progressive wings. This division has been exacerbated by the Trump era, and it will continue to be a challenge for the party to overcome.
Finding Common Ground: The Challenges of Party Unity
The Democrats must find a way to bridge the gap between their moderate and progressive wings. This will require compromise and a willingness to listen to each other’s concerns. It will also require a focus on common ground, such as the need to protect healthcare, address climate change, and create a more equitable economy.
If the Democrats can find a way to unite behind a common agenda, they will be well-positioned to compete in the 2024 election. However, if they continue to be divided, they risk handing the victory to Donald Trump or another Republican.
The Road Ahead: A Call to Action for the Democrats
The Democrats face a critical juncture in their history. The party is at a crossroads, and the choices they make in the coming months will determine their future. If they choose to cling to the past and ignore the challenges they face, they will likely suffer defeat in 2024.
But if they choose to embrace change, unite behind a common vision, and offer voters a genuine alternative to the Republican Party, then they have the potential to not only win the next election but also build a more just and equitable future for all Americans.
The time for action is now. The Democrats must come together, confront their challenges head-on, and chart a new course for the future. The fate of the party, and perhaps the nation, hangs in the balance.
Conclusion
The 2024 election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in American history. The outcome of this election will have far-reaching consequences for the future of the country. The Democrats have a lot at stake, and they must act now to ensure their survival.
The party must confront its challenges head-on, develop a viable Plan B, and offer voters a clear and compelling vision for the future. If they can do this, then they have the potential to not only win the 2024 election but also build a brighter future for all Americans.
The choice is theirs. Will they rise to the challenge, or will they succumb to the forces of division and defeat? Only time will tell.
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Corruption
Transparency International Pakistan releases NCPS 2025
ISLAMABAD—Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) on Tuesday released its comprehensive National Corruption Perception Survey (NCPS) 2025, presenting a mixed picture of public sentiment on corruption, anti-graft efforts, and governance across the country.
The survey, conducted with 4,000 respondents from all four provinces, reveals that while a significant majority of citizens did not report paying a bribe in the last year, three key public sectors—the Police, Tender/Procurement, and the Judiciary—continue to be perceived as the most corruption-prone institutions.
Table of Contents
Police Top List Despite Perception Improvement
According to the NCPS 2025 findings, the Police remains the most corrupt sector in the eyes of the public, cited by 24% of respondents nationwide. This is followed by the Tender and Procurement process at 16%, and the Judiciary at 14%.
However, the report highlighted a subtle but “notable” positive shift in public perception regarding the Police, registering a 6% improvement in perceived behaviour and service delivery compared to the previous survey.
Low Bribery Rate vs. High Dissatisfaction
The survey’s most encouraging statistic is that a majority of citizens (66%) reported they did not feel compelled to pay a bribe for public services in the past 12 months, which TIP considers a strong indicator of perceived progress in service delivery. Provincially, Sindh reported the highest rate of citizens encountering a demand for a bribe at 46%.
Despite the low rate of personal bribery, public satisfaction with the government’s overall efforts to combat corruption remains low. A significant 77% of respondents nationwide expressed “low satisfaction” or were “not satisfied” with the government’s anti-corruption drive.
The public identified the three major causes driving corruption as a lack of accountability (15%), lack of transparency and limited access to information (15%), and delays in the disposal of corruption cases (14%).
Demand for Accountability of Anti-Graft Bodies
The survey findings reflect a strong public demand for institutional reform and accountability. An overwhelming 78% of Pakistanis believe that anti-corruption institutions like the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) should themselves be more accountable and transparent.
Citizens also proposed a blueprint for curbing corruption, prioritising:
- Enhancing accountability (26%)
- Limiting discretionary powers (23%)
- Strengthening Right to Information laws (20%)
The report also found a notable lack of awareness regarding reporting channels, with 70% of citizens being unaware of any official corruption reporting mechanism. Furthermore, 42% stated they would feel safe reporting corruption only if strong whistleblower protection laws were in place.
Economic Stability and Political Finance
On economic matters, approximately 58% of respondents indicated that the government has either fully or partially stabilised the economy, crediting the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme and the country’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List. However, 57% reported a decline in their purchasing power over the past year.
The survey also highlighted a strong public desire for clean electoral financing, with a combined 83% of respondents supporting either a complete ban or strict regulation of business funding to political parties.
In response to the report, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the survey, stating that the large number of respondents who reported not encountering corruption during his government reflects the public’s recognition of the reforms aimed at transparency and economic recovery.
For more details on the survey’s public opinion findings, watch this report: Transparency International Report on Corruption – Public Opinion – 9 Dec 2025.
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Breaking News
Japan Earthquake Today: Tsunami Warnings, Vigilance, and Resilience
As breaking news spread that a powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Japan today, triggering tsunami warnings and mass evacuations. Stay informed about the latest updates, safety measures, and historical context.
Japan earthquake today has once again reminded the world of the country’s vulnerability to seismic activity. Late on December 8, 2025, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast near Aomori, prompting widespread tsunami warnings and urgent evacuation orders.
Japan, located in the seismically active “Ring of Fire,” is no stranger to earthquakes and tsunamis. Yet each tremor brings renewed urgency, fear, and resilience. This article provides a step-by-step breakdown of the latest events, the science behind earthquake and tsunami warnings, and the human stories of vigilance and survival.
Table of Contents
The Earthquake in Japan Today
- Magnitude: 7.6 (USGS, JMA reports)
- Time: 11:15 p.m. local time, December 8, 2025
- Epicenter: ~80 km offshore Aomori Prefecture
- Depth: ~33–44 km below the surface
- Impact: Shaking rated “upper 6” on Japan’s 1–7 intensity scale — nearly impossible to stand without crawling.
Residents reported violent shaking, falling furniture, and broken windows. Several injuries were confirmed in Aomori, with at least 33 people hurt across northern Japan.
Tsunami Warning Japan Earthquake
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami warning immediately after the quake. Waves between 20–70 cm were observed at ports in Aomori and Hokkaido. Authorities warned of possible waves up to 3 meters (10 feet).
Although tsunami alerts were later lifted, officials urged continued vigilance due to aftershocks and the risk of a “megaquake”.
Human Impact and Evacuations
- Evacuations: ~90,000 residents ordered to leave coastal areas.
- Infrastructure: Train services were disrupted, power outages were reported, and fires broke out in Aomori.
- Nuclear Safety: Plants in northeastern Japan conducted urgent safety checks.
Families fled to higher ground, clutching emergency kits. Elderly residents were assisted by volunteers, while schools and community centers opened as shelters.
Historical Context: Earthquakes and Tsunamis in Japan
Japan has faced devastating quakes before:
- 2011 Tōhoku Earthquake & Tsunami: Magnitude 9.0, killed nearly 20,000 people.
- 1995 Kobe Earthquake: Magnitude 6.9, killed over 6,000.
These events shaped Japan’s disaster preparedness, from strict building codes to nationwide drills.
Science Behind Tsunami Warnings
Tsunamis occur when undersea quakes displace water. Japan’s advanced monitoring systems detect seismic waves and issue alerts within minutes. The tsunami warning Japan earthquake system is among the most sophisticated globally, saving countless lives.
Vigilance and Preparedness
Authorities emphasised vigilance:
- Keep emergency kits ready.
- Know evacuation routes.
- Follow official alerts, not rumours.
Preparedness is cultural in Japan — schools, offices, and households regularly practice drills.
Global Reactions
International leaders expressed solidarity. Aid organisations offered support, while neighbouring countries monitored for possible tsunami impacts.
Conclusion
The earthquake in Japan today is a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of vigilance. While tsunami warnings have been lifted, aftershocks remain a risk. Japan’s resilience, preparedness, and community spirit continue to inspire the world.
FAQs (SEO Boost Section)
Q1: Was there a tsunami in Japan today? Yes, small waves were observed, but major tsunami warnings have been lifted.
Q2: How strong was the earthquake in Japan today? It was a magnitude 7.6 quake, one of the strongest in recent years.
Q3: What should people do during a tsunami warning? Evacuate to higher ground immediately, stay tuned to official alerts, and avoid coastal areas.
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Entertainment
How Netflix Stole Warner Bros from David Ellison: Old Hollywood’s Miscalculation
For two decades, Netflix has been dismissed as a disruptor that would eventually plateau. Legacy Hollywood believed its dominance was temporary, a fad that would fade once the old guard flexed its muscle. Yet in 2025, the streaming pioneer pulled off a coup that stunned the industry: Netflix outmanoeuvred David Ellison’s Skydance and secured Warner Bros, rewriting the rules of entertainment economics.
Table of Contents
Macro Context: Streaming’s Rise and Hollywood’s Decline
The streaming wars have reshaped the global media landscape. Netflix, once a DVD‑by‑mail service, now commands billions in revenue and a subscriber base that dwarfs traditional cable. Meanwhile, legacy studios like Warner Bros Discovery struggled under debt, fragmented audiences, and outdated business models.
David Ellison’s Skydance, backed by ambition and capital, seemed poised to rescue Warner Bros. Yet Netflix’s strategic patience, global reach, and ability to monetise content across platforms proved decisive.
David Ellison’s Bid: Ambition Meets Reality
Ellison’s attempt to acquire Warner Bros was emblematic of Hollywood’s old guard—ambitious, well‑funded, but ultimately constrained by legacy thinking. Skydance’s merger talks with Paramount highlighted Ellison’s vision of building a modern studio empire. But when it came to Warner Bros, Netflix’s agility and scale proved insurmountable.
- Skydance Strategy: Focused on blockbuster franchises and traditional studio models.
- Netflix Strategy: Leveraged global subscriber data, AI‑driven content recommendations, and diversified revenue streams.
- Outcome: Ellison underestimated Netflix’s ability to play the long game.
Warner Bros: A Legacy Studio Recast
Warner Bros, once synonymous with Hollywood glamour, became a symbol of industry decline. Debt burdens, misaligned leadership, and fragmented IP portfolios left it vulnerable. Netflix’s acquisition was not just a business deal—it was a cultural takeover.
By absorbing Warner Bros, Netflix gained access to iconic franchises, a century of cinematic heritage, and a foothold in theatrical distribution. More importantly, it signaled that streaming had officially eclipsed legacy Hollywood.
Opinion: Why Old Hollywood Misread Netflix
As a senior columnist, I argue that Hollywood underestimated Netflix’s long game. For years, executives dismissed streaming as secondary to theatrical releases. They failed to grasp that Netflix was not just a content distributor—it was a data‑driven entertainment ecosystem.
Netflix’s ability to predict audience behavior, scale globally, and monetize IP across formats gave it an edge Ellison and others could not match. The Warner Bros deal is proof that the future belongs to platforms that combine technology with storytelling.
Conclusion
Netflix’s acquisition of Warner Bros is more than a headline—it’s a turning point. David Ellison’s failed bid underscores the limits of old‑guard Hollywood thinking. The lesson is clear: streaming is not the future, it is the present.
For policymakers, investors, and audiences, the message is unmistakable: Netflix didn’t just buy Warner Bros—it rewrote the rules of Hollywood.
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