In a heartfelt and historic televised address, US President Joe Biden announced that he is ending his re-election campaign to focus on preserving American democracy. The 81-year-old president, who has served in public office for over half a century, made the announcement from the Oval Office, surrounded by his family and key White House staff.
“I revere this office, but I love my country more,” Biden began, setting the tone for his 11-minute speech. He acknowledged that while he believed his record warranted a second term, the need to safeguard democracy was paramount. “Nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy,” he emphasized.
Biden endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris to lead the Democratic Party and the nation forward. “I have decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation,” he said, describing Harris as an “experienced, tough, capable” partner.
The decision comes amid growing pressure from colleagues and donors, who had been urging Biden to step aside due to concerns about his ability to serve another term. These doubts were exacerbated by a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump and questions about Biden’s frailty and mental competence, issues that have dominated the political landscape for months.
Despite these challenges, Biden did not address the specifics of his campaign’s unraveling or the likelihood of defeat to Trump. Instead, he focused on the importance of unity and the power of the American people. “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.”
Opinion polls suggest a significant boost for Harris since she took over Biden’s mantle, making the race between her and Trump a tight one. Harris, who would be the first black, South-Asian American, and woman president if elected, has been actively campaigning. Earlier on Wednesday, she addressed the historically black Zeta Phi Beta sorority in Indianapolis, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming election.
“In this moment, I believe we face a choice between two different visions for our nation, one focused on the future, the other focused on the past,” Harris said. “And with your support, I am fighting for our nation’s future.”
Meanwhile, Trump, 78, criticized Biden’s speech on his social media platform, Truth Social, calling it “barely understandable” and “sooo bad!” At a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina, Trump attacked both Harris and Biden, labeling Harris a “radical left lunatic” and Biden the most damaging president in US history.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre denied that Biden’s exit was health-related and refuted claims of a cover-up regarding his cognitive abilities.
Biden’s decision marks the first time since 1968 that a sitting president has chosen not to seek re-election. Some Republicans have called for Biden to step down immediately, arguing that he cannot effectively run the country if he cannot run for office. The White House has rejected these claims.
On Thursday, Biden is expected to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, along with the families of US hostages still being held in Gaza.
