In a recent speech in Arizona, U.S. President Joe Biden escalated his criticism of former President Donald Trump, portraying him as a significant threat to the country's democratic values and institutions. Biden accused Trump of believing he had unchecked power and was above the law, referencing Trump's past statements about the Constitution granting him such powers. Biden also expressed concern about the MAGA movement, Trump's supporters, and their perceived threat to American democracy, including their attacks on the free press, rule of law, and efforts to suppress voting.

Biden's speech marked a departure from his previous approach of not directly targeting mainstream Republicans, but this time he suggested their complicity in the face of Trump's actions. He also referenced Trump's recent legal troubles, although he did not delve into specifics. Biden's speech came on the same day that House Republicans held a hearing for a Biden impeachment inquiry related to allegations of corruption involving his son, Hunter Biden, but no evidence of presidential wrongdoing was presented.

Biden's remarks highlighted his ongoing commitment to defending democratic values, especially in swing states like Arizona, where efforts to discredit the 2020 election results have occurred. While polls indicate that the economy is the top concern for many voters, Biden's campaign believes that emphasizing the defense of democratic institutions and values remains a resonant theme. Trump remains a dominant force in the Republican Party, despite facing multiple legal challenges, and recent polls show strong support for him among Republican primary voters.