WASHINGTON (AP) - President Joe Biden is adopting a strategy aimed at defining his potential Republican rival, former President Donald Trump, as he gears up for the 2024 election. Biden's campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, recently sent a fundraising email to reassure supporters and urged them to remember how doubts were raised about former President Barack Obama's reelection in 2012. By focusing on Trump's comments and policy proposals, Biden aims to negatively shape the public's perception of his opponent, using a time-tested strategy employed by White House incumbents.

The strategy of highlighting the shortcomings of rivals has been successfully used by past presidents. In 2012, Obama and his allies effectively painted Republican nominee Mitt Romney as out of touch with everyday Americans. Similarly, in 2004, President George W. Bush successfully portrayed Democratic nominee John Kerry as a flip-flopper. However, Biden faces unique challenges with Trump, who is already well-defined in the eyes of the American public.

Despite Trump's divisive rhetoric and promises of retribution, some prominent Democrats have cautioned against making the race solely about him. They believe Biden should focus on his own record, particularly on issues such as abortion rights. Biden's campaign has recently intensified warnings about Trump, criticizing his suggestions of ruling as a dictator and repealing Obama's healthcare overhaul. Additionally, Biden has voiced concerns about Trump's plans for massive deportation raids.

Biden, who previously refrained from mentioning Trump by name, has shifted his approach by highlighting the dangers posed by his predecessor. His campaign emphasizes the importance of distinguishing clear contrasts between Biden's track record and Trump's vision for the country. The campaign aims to showcase Biden's achievements in lowering costs and delivering for middle-class families while presenting Trump's vision as divisive.

Biden's campaign intends to adopt unconventional strategies to reach voters, recognizing the significant shifts in Americans' media consumption habits. Unlike Obama's reliance on grassroots organizing and television ad spending in 2012, Biden's team recognizes the need to adapt to changing dynamics.

The 2024 race differs significantly from 2012. Biden can point to legislative accomplishments, particularly in infrastructure, and highlight low unemployment rates as indicators of economic strength. However, public opinion polls indicate that Americans view the economy unfavorably and have concerns about Biden's handling of economic matters.

The Biden campaign benefits from the experienced Obama campaign veterans who hold key roles. Their knowledge and insights from past successful campaigns contribute to shaping Biden's political operation. They understand the importance of shifting the focus of the race onto the threat posed by Trump, rather than solely on Biden's record.

As the election season intensifies, Biden has maintained a relatively light schedule of campaign rallies but has been actively engaged in fundraising efforts. His campaign aims to build momentum, emphasizing economic themes such as the failure of Trump's promises regarding job creation in critical swing states.

Comparisons to the 2012 election reveal a more polarized political landscape. Polls conducted in 2011 suggested that Romney's public image was more malleable, while Trump's well-defined political brand makes the task of shaping public opinion more challenging.

Biden's team acknowledges that many voters have already formed their opinions about Trump. Nonetheless, they believe that Biden can effectively use Trump's reputation against him, much like he did during the 2020 campaign. As the 2024 election approaches, the focus on Biden's relatively low polling numbers is viewed through the lens of a pre-Trump era.

Stuart Stevens, who served as chief strategist for Romney's campaign, suggests that the world has changed significantly since 2012, with increased polarization. He believes that the 2024 election will inevitably become a referendum on Trump.

Biden's roadmap for success lies in reminding voters of what they believe was a failed presidency under Trump. By highlighting the contrast between Trump's policies and his own accomplishments, Biden aims to secure a second term in the White House.