The “uncommitted” vote secured at least five delegates in Kentucky’s Democratic presidential primary on Tuesday, according to Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ) in the latest blow to President Biden amid criticism from his own party over the handling of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
More than 32,900 voters in the state, nearly 18 percent, chose “uncommitted” over Biden, who received more than 131,000 votes (71 percent), according to DDHQ’s results, The Hill reported, citing the data.
“A combined 11 percent went to the incumbent’s long-shot challengers, author Marianne Williamson and Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.), who dropped out of the race earlier this year,” the outlet continued.
The results in the Bluegrass State reflect a pattern observed in some other early primaries this year. For example, in Michigan, 13 percent of primary votes were cast as a protest ballot for “uncommitted,” earning two delegates in February.
“Uncommitted” has secured 28 delegates so far in the 2024 primary race, according to DDHQ’s tracker, compared to Biden’s 3,750 pledged delegates.
The ‘uncommitted’ vote doesn’t pose a serious risk to the incumbent, who has already secured the Democratic nomination. However, the movement symbolizes the backlash he faces over his approach to the conflict and humanitarian crisis in the Middle East.
The Biden administration is navigating a delicate balance in its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They are committed to supporting Israel’s right to self-defense and condemning antisemitism, while also advocating for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and urging Israel to take greater precautions to protect civilian lives in the region.
Organizers in Oregon urged voters to write in “uncommitted,” even though it was not a formal option on Tuesday’s primary ballot.
Former President Trump dominated the Kentucky Republican primary, securing nearly 85 percent of the GOP vote, which translates to over 215,600 votes. Meanwhile, his one-time rival, ex-United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, managed to capture about 6 percent of the vote. The outcome highlights some lingering frustrations among Americans with Trump as he prepares for a likely rematch against Biden in the upcoming November election, The Hill said.
