On Wednesday, President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the presidential race against Republican Donald Trump, citing concerns about the future of U.S. democracy. In his first public remarks since ending his re-election bid, Biden stated he is stepping aside to allow a new generation to take over.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Biden invoked past presidents Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln as he expressed his deep respect for the presidency and his love for the country he has served for nearly 50 years. “I revere this office,” Biden said. “But I love my country more.”
Biden, 81, resisted weeks of pressure from Democrats to step down after a poor debate performance on June 27. At one point, he stated that only the “Lord Almighty” could convince him to withdraw. After days of soul-searching and reviewing internal polling that suggested he might lose to Trump in November, Biden decided to step aside, fearing he could also harm the chances of 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 declared.
He praised Vice President Kamala Harris, who, after his endorsement, secured enough Democratic delegates to become the Democratic nominee in his place. “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 alluded to the dangers he believes the nation faces if Trump wins the November 5 election, without directly naming him. “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.”
This address marked Biden’s first extended public remarks since he announced on social media on Sunday that he would not seek re-election on November 5. Behind the scenes in the Oval Office were several of Biden’s close family members and senior advisers, who applauded him once he finished his speech. Ashley Biden, towards the end of his remarks, held the hand of her mother, First Lady Jill Biden.
Biden is the first incumbent president not to seek re-election since Lyndon Johnson in 1968, who withdrew amid criticism of his Vietnam War policies. Biden joins James K. Polk, James Buchanan, Rutherford B. Hayes, Calvin Coolidge, and Harry Truman as presidents who chose not to pursue a second elected term.
Following a shaky debate performance, Biden faced immediate calls to step aside due to concerns about his mental acuity. Since his decision to withdraw, Democrats have united around him, commending 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 that evening, White House staff gathered to watch Biden’s speech together, later cheering and applauding his remarks in the White House Rose Garden, where ice cream was served.
The White House has consistently denied any cognitive issues with Biden, despite recent verbal slip-ups. Biden emphasized his commitment to his duties for the remainder of his term. He pledged to strengthen and unite NATO, stop Russian President Vladimir Putin from taking over Ukraine, work towards a Gaza ceasefire, and push for Supreme Court reform. Biden is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire efforts.
This was Biden’s fourth formal Oval Office address since taking office in 2021, his last being on July 15, urging Americans to lower political tensions following the attempted assassination of Trump. Biden’s political career began in 1972 when he was elected to the Senate at age 29, making him the sixth youngest U.S. senator. He will conclude his tenure as the oldest American president on January 20, 2025, at 82 years old.
“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.’”
