Editor's note: Freddie Reidy is a freelance writer based in London. He studied history and history of art at the University of Kent, Canterbury, specializing in Russian history and international politics. The article reflects the author's opinions, and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Joe Biden's campaign has taken another hit with the renewed allegation that he sexually assaulted former Senate staffer Tara Reade. While Biden is now leading Trump in the polls, serious questions remain over the presumed Democratic candidate, with confirmation of his nomination as the official candidate at August's party Convention looking less from certain.

The allegation surfaced in 2019 where Reade was one of 20 women who alleged Biden had made them feel "uncomfortable." DNC (Democratic National Committee) chairman, Tom Perez likened the allegation to that of the email scandal which marred Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign. "This is like Hillary's emails, because there was nothing there." 

This seems something of a clumsy statement as many people still view the former secretary of state as anything but innocent in the matter. Demonstrating a wider issue in only addressing the party faithful rather than the swing voters and those on the fence who are more likely to be swayed by such developments.

Perez did point out that Biden had gone through an extremely rigorous vetting process when he was chosen as Barack Obama's running mate in 2008. Depressingly however, the truth is somewhat irrelevant. It is a question of perception and Biden needs to be whiter than white in comparison to Donald Trump.

Lingering question marks over the Democratic candidate will blunt vital Democrat attack lines on the incumbent President's character.

Biden's campaign is presently in the curious position of being in the ascendency in the polls, but simultaneous polls conducted by Emerson College also indicate that 57 percent of the electorate believe that Donald Trump will secure a second term.

This is probably attributable to continued frustration at the president's handling of the COVID-19 crisis, rather than Joe Biden's long-term appeal as a future president. The frustration at the president's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is being met with a quieter frustration from Democrats at Biden's inability to take full advantage of Trump's weakened position.

Last week's special guest at Biden's digital town hall meeting was Hillary Clinton of offered a glowing endorsement. Many also noted that Clinton demonstrated far greater energy and engagement. With much more policy detail and analysis than that offered by the candidate. 

It was also noted that while Clinton spoke of her experience of working alongside Biden, it also served as a not-so-subtle reminder of her credentials. Once again fueling rumors that Clinton could be coaxed out of self-imposed retirement, if called upon by the party.

The digital town hall serves as a useful illustration of how pedestrian the Biden campaign is being. Following the link on Biden's campaign page, you begin watching a minute countdown to the commencement of the town hall, reminiscent of the 1980s test card.

There is then an awkward moment where Biden and Clinton sit there and wait to start. The lack of production value and editing may be a small point, but it demonstrates a lack of dynamism and inability to connect which is set to dog the digital campaign.

Hillary Clinton may believe that it takes a village, but Biden's town hall was viewed just 77,000 times, the same number as the population of beloved Scranton, Pennsylvania of which the pair bonded over during Clinton's appearance. To put that count into perspective, Clinton's last Instagram post garnered 15,000 comments alone and President Trumps last rally was viewed 108,000 times.  

What of those Clinton campaign rumors though? It may appear more than farfetched, however, Biden won't be chosen as the official candidate until August's convention. Aside from the sexual misconduct allegations, Biden is behind Clinton's position on fundraising and is polling behind Clinton's 2016 position in swing states.

More concerning though, is the niggling sense among Democrats and the wider electorate that Biden is demonstrating cognitive decline.

This observation has been made of President Trump although the U.S. president is far more bullish and remains unafraid to go on the offensive and mask any momentary lapses in concentration.

One theory for a last-minute candidate substitute, is that the appointed running mate could succeed Biden ahead of the party convention if Biden's chances continue to appear less likely.

Hillary Clinton may be one of the most divisive political candidates since Lyndon B. Johnson, but the former first lady has the personnel in place, the profile, the experience, and the fundraising ability to make such an audacious move. 

Michelle Obama is probably the only other potential candidate who could mount as serious a challenge to President Trump at such a short notice.

Is this likely though? Probably not. The rumors are in part an ironic American fixation with political dynasties and part desperation to remove Trump from office. 

Gambles of such seismic measure are unlikely. Donald Trump wrestled the nomination from fellow candidates in 2016 but neither Clinton nor Obama would make such a move against Biden.

The debate does though, increase pressure on Biden to make waives with the appointment of his running mate. The prudent choice would be Kamala Harris, but with a funding hill to climb and an increasing need to build momentum, Biden could be pushed into making a bold choice and the former secretary of state will always be in the mix.

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinions@cgtn.com.)