President Joe Biden, who stepped down as a presidential candidate in the upcoming November election, stated that it is time for the new generation to lead. He expressed his support for Vice President Kamala Harris to be officially nominated as the Democratic candidate.
During yesterday’s live broadcast, Biden stated that he believes stepping aside from the re-election is “the best way to unite our nation.”
Making his first public appearance since testing positive for COVID-19 and announcing his decision to withdraw from the presidential race.
“It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president. But in defense of democracy, which is at stake – and is more important than any title. I draw strength and find joy in working for the American people,” he said.
In his address, Biden also highlighted his achievements in office.
Biden boasted that nearly 16 million new jobs had been created since taking office. He added that the U.S. economy had become the strongest in the world. He continued by saying that wages had increased and inflation had dropped. He noted that the wealth gap between races was at its smallest in 20 years and that manufacturing had returned to America. He further stressed that personal ambition must not obstruct the defense of democracy, declaring that it was time to pass the torch to a new generation.
Describing her “great,” Biden expressed gratitude for Vice President Harris, whom he supports as a candidate. “She’s experienced, she’s tough, she’s capable,” he added.
He emphasized, “The great thing about America is that kings and dictators do not rule here.”
Biden also addressed recent calls for his resignation, asserting, “I will fulfill my remaining duties as president. I have a busy schedule ahead for the next six months,” dismissing the possibility of stepping down.
In response to the related questions during a regular briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre prefaced her remarks by stating, “This is not a personal response to you but a response to the overall suggestion of resignation,” and firmly said, “It’s ridiculous.” Jean-Pierre emphasized that Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race was “a very personal and difficult decision,” clarifying that it was unrelated to his health.
During his remaining time in office, Biden is expected to focus on ending the war in Gaza, protecting individual freedoms, supporting low-income families, reforming the Supreme Court, and protecting children from gun violence.
Democratic lawmakers praised Biden following his address.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi posted on her X account, “Tonight, we saw President Joe Biden – one of America’s most consequential presidents – show that he is not only on the right side of history, but on the right side of the future.”
Representative Judy Chu from California described the address as “What a beautiful tribute to the nation we all love by a historically accomplished statesman. I’m so very grateful to serve alongside him.”
