The White House is actively expanding its scheduling and advance team, indicating President Biden’s preparation for an intensive travel itinerary in the upcoming months as he gears up for a heated reelection campaign against former President Trump.
Insiders close to the White House operations have noted an increase in job openings, pointing to a significantly larger advance team than in previous years.
In an election year, where every resource counts, the White House is strategically allocating its personnel, especially valuing the advance office, to underscore the importance of travel.
“This marks a full-throttle approach,” shared an insider knowledgeable about Biden and his team’s strategy. “They’re gearing up for the challenges ahead, with a busy schedule of travel and events on the horizon.”
A White House official confirmed the addition of several roles to the team, though the exact number remains undisclosed. However, it was mentioned that these additions represent only a small fraction of the overall White House team.
The expansion of the scheduling and advance department — responsible for planning and orchestrating events before the president’s public appearances — marks a notable departure from the 2020 presidential campaign’s nature between Biden and Trump. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, before vaccines were available, Biden’s campaign was primarily conducted from his home in Wilmington, Delaware.
Initially perceived as a limitation, Biden’s home-based campaign strategy ultimately shifted the public’s focus more onto Trump, effectively turning the election into a referendum on Trump’s leadership.
In 2024, Trump aims to turn the tables, making the election a referendum on Biden. The bolstering of the travel office indicates Biden’s team recognizes the necessity of hitting the road to secure reelection.
“Joe Biden excels when he’s outside Washington, directly engaging with the American people,” stated White House spokesperson Andrew Bates. “He’s eager for more.”
Parallel to the White House efforts, the Biden campaign is also enhancing its advance operation, preparing for a vigorous campaign trail.
Biden has already embarked on a substantial travel schedule, visiting key states like Nevada, Arizona, and Texas, where he held fundraisers in Houston and Dallas. This week, he, along with Vice President Harris, will visit North Carolina, aiming to secure its support. Later, a significant fundraiser in New York City awaits, featuring former Presidents Obama and Clinton at Radio City Music Hall.
The focus on domestic travel will intensify, with international trips expected to be minimal before November. The only anticipated overseas engagement is the G7 summit in Italy this June.
This strategic investment in the advance team follows some recent upheavals within the department, including investigations and resignations related to allegations of verbal harassment.
Despite facing challenges, including lagging poll numbers in crucial states and an approval rating below 50%, the bolstered advance team is seen as a positive move for Biden. To succeed, he must actively communicate his achievements and future plans to voters in pivotal states like Michigan and Wisconsin.
“He needs to increase his direct engagement with the electorate at various events,” emphasized a source. “That’s why we’re strengthening our on-the-ground team, to ensure we’re operating at full capacity.”