In an unexpected revelation momentous in American history, President Joe Biden made a televised statement from the Oval Office on Wednesday, explaining his decision to withdraw from the upcoming presidential race, and highlighting the commencement of a fresh chapter in the US history.
Biden spoke with conviction, eyeing the future, “My tenure as president, my global leadership and my vision for the future of this country are all deserving of a second term, yet we should not let anything obstruct the preservation of our democracy – even personal aspirations.” He, thus, delivered his evolving vision for the nation’s leadership.
The president echoed his sentiment of unity and renewal, “I’ve determined that giving the younger generation an opportunity to lead is the most beneficial path forward – an optimal way to unite our country. While there is a certain value to long-standing public service, there is also an indispensable need for new, vibrant – indeed, youthful – voices. The time and place for this is now.”
This monumental speech arrived only three days following his surprising disclosure about quitting his presidential pursuit a mere four months before the election day. President Biden, reflecting on his fifty years of public service, committed to continue working for the improvement of the American individuals’ lives during his remaining term. While some Republicans urged for his immediate resignation, he strongly refused such propositions.
For the remainder of his service, Biden pledged, “My focus for the ensuing six months will be on fulfilling my duties as president: Systematic reduction of costs for industrious families, fostering economic growth, and persistently protecting personal freedoms and civil liberties – from the right of suffrage to the right of choice.”
Moreover, Mr. Biden staunchly asserted to “remain committed to concluding the upheaval in Gaza, secure the return of all hostages, and usher peace and security in the Middle East”. His address followed the contentious speech made by the Israeli Prime Minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, in a rare joint session of the US Congress, advocating for a “complete victory”.
Lastly, Biden marked his determined foreign policy leadership, including unwavering support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia, as amongst his most laudable achievements. He reiterated his legislative actions taken towards resolving climate emergencies, mitigating gun violence and amplifying access to healthcare.
Reflecting on his inauguration day in 2021, which took place just weeks following the unprecedented January 6th Capitol riot and amidst the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Biden express admiration at the endurance of the nation in such challenging times.
“We found ourselves grappling with the most severe health crisis in a century, enduring the deepest financial crisis since the Great Depression, and witnessing the most egregious assault on our democracy since the Civil War,” Mr. Biden stated. “Yet, as a united front of Americans, we survived. We emerged from the crisis stronger, wealthier and safer.”
Following his decision to step back from the race on Sunday, Mr. Biden voiced his support for his vice-president, Kamala Harris, who has already secured enough delegate backing to secure the Democratic nomination in the forthcoming month. In his address, Mr. Biden highlighted Ms Harris’s formidable experience and solidified the critical decision the electorate face this coming November.
“I would like to express my gratitude towards our remarkable vice-president, Kamala Harris,” said Mr. Biden. “She is seasoned, resilient and accomplished. She has been an exceptional ally to me and a leader for our nation. Now the decision rests in your hands, the people of America.”
Prior to Mr. Biden’s withdrawal announcement on Sunday, over 30 Congressional Democrats had urged the President to retire from competition after a disappointing debate performance the previous month. Polls in the days leading up to the announcement revealed a growing percentage of Democrats voicing the belief that it might be time for Mr. Biden to step down, as Donald Trump’s lead started to extend.
Initial polls post-Sunday suggest a close contest between Mr. Trump and Ms Harris, but the Vice President appears to be slightly in the lead compared to where Mr. Biden stood. Despite indications of a close competition, Mr. Biden expressed belief in America’s commitment to preserve democracy this November.
Summoning the words of the Declaration of Independence and founding father Benjamin Franklin, Mr. Biden championed the enduring principle of American exceptionalism. “America represents an ideal, an ideal that is mightier than any military force, stretches further than any ocean, and holds more sway than any ruler or dictator. This powerful ideal is unparalleled,” Mr. Biden asserted.
The principles that we believe to be fundamentally evident are that we are all born equal, and granted inalienable rights by our creator such as the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. While we have not completely realised these principles, we have never abandoned them. Accordingly, I am certain the citizens of America will not desert these principles now, stated Mr Biden. This sentiment was reminiscent of his 2020 election slogan, which described the election against Trump as a ‘struggle for the country’s heart’. This struggle still persists, according to Mr Biden, and it is now up to American citizens to determine its outcome.
“American greatness lies within the fact that we are not governed by kings or dictators; The people rule here,” Mr Biden stated. “The country’s history, power, and the American idea are in your hands. Maintain belief – remain faithful – and recall our identity.”
His long-term colleague, Barack Obama, under whom Mr Biden served two terms as vice president, expressed his gratitude post Mr Biden’s speech. On X, a portion of the speech was quoted by Mr Obama – “The truth, the sacred purpose of this nation, is greater than any individual among us,” he then commented, “Over a lifetime of service to the citizens of the United States, Joe Biden has repeatedly demonstrated commitment to these words.”
Previous reports have indicated that Mr Obama has refrained from publically endorsing the Democratic candidate Ms Harris. However, sources from NBC News on Thursday indicated plans from the former president to extend support to her soon. He has privately given his full support to Ms Harris’s candidacy and has maintained regular contact with her, the report indicated citing sources familiar with the conversations.
Following his speech, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi showed support for Mr Biden in a statement, endorsing him as “one of the United States’ most impactful presidents”. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised Biden’s withdrawal decision, lauding it as “an immense patriotic act for this beloved country”.