Excellent piece, Sikander,
Donald Trump was always part of Biden's rhetoric.
From his declaration to run for a second term, Biden made Donald Trump the centerpiece of his campaign, "Don't compare me to the almighty, etc." and, in effect, elevated Donald Trump.
Biden failed to present a vision for the American future, likely because he lacked one. Voters want aspiration, and Biden, much like Trump, offers retro.
Best.