President Joe Biden Announces Decision to Step Aside, Emphasizes Importance of U.S. Democracy
In his first public address since ending his re-election bid, President Joe Biden stated on Wednesday that he withdrew from the race against Republican Donald Trump out of concerns for the future of U.S. democracy. He explained his decision to step aside to allow a new generation to take over.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Biden referenced past presidents Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln as he expressed his deep respect for the presidency, which he will leave in six months, concluding a 50-year career in public service.
“I revere this office,” Biden said. “But I love my country more.”
At 81, Biden resisted weeks of pressure from Democrats to step aside after a poor debate performance on June 27, asserting that only “the Lord Almighty” could persuade him to leave. Following days of reflection and reviewing internal polls showing he might lose to Trump in November, Biden ultimately decided to step down to avoid potentially harming fellow Democrats.
“I’ve decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. That’s the best way to unite our nation,” Biden said.
He commended Vice President Kamala Harris, who, with his endorsement, secured enough Democratic delegates to become the party’s nominee.
“She’s tough. She’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country,” Biden said.
Throughout his 11-minute speech, Biden emphasized the dangers he believes Americans face if Trump wins the November 5 election, without mentioning Trump by name.
“Nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition,” he stated.
“The great thing about America is here, kings and dictators do not rule. The people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hands. The idea of America lies in your hands,” Biden added.
This address was Biden’s first extensive public comment since he succumbed to pressure from fellow Democrats and announced on Sunday via social media that he would not seek re-election on November 5.
Seated out of camera view were several members of Biden’s close-knit family and senior advisers, who applauded as he concluded his remarks. Toward the end, Ashley Biden reached for the hand of her mother, First Lady Jill Biden, seated beside her.
Biden becomes the first incumbent president not to seek re-election since Lyndon Johnson, who withdrew in 1968 due to his handling of the Vietnam War. He joins presidents James K. Polk, James Buchanan, Rutherford B. Hayes, Calvin Coolidge, and Harry Truman, who all decided against running for a second elected term.
Immediate calls for Biden to step aside came after his rocky debate performance raised concerns about his mental acuity. However, since his decision to step down, Democrats have rallied around him, praising his character and presidential record.
“Nowhere else on Earth could a kid with a stutter, from modest beginnings in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Claymont, Delaware, one day sit behind the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office as president of the United States,” Biden reflected. “But here I am.”
Earlier in the evening, staff members gathered to watch the speech together in the White House, cheering and applauding afterward. Ice cream was served in celebration.
The White House has denied any cognitive issues for Biden despite a recent increase in verbal slip-ups.
Biden pledged to focus on his presidential duties over the remaining six months of his term. He committed to strengthening NATO, stopping Russian President Vladimir Putin from taking over Ukraine, working toward a ceasefire in Gaza, and pushing for Supreme Court reform. He is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday to discuss Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
This marked Biden’s fourth use of the formal Oval Office setting since taking office in 2021. His last Oval Office address was on July 15, urging Americans to lower political rhetoric following an assassination attempt on Trump.
Biden’s political career began in 1972 when he was elected to the Senate at age 29, becoming the sixth youngest U.S. senator. He will conclude his White House tenure on January 20, 2025, as the oldest American president, having already turned 82.
“I draw strength, and I find joy, in working for the American people. But this sacred task of perfecting our Union is not about me. It’s about you. Your families. Your futures. It’s about ‘We the People,’” Biden concluded.
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