In a televised address to Americans, President Joe Biden announced his decision to end his re-election campaign to safeguard US democracy. Biden, 81, expressed that his presidential record warranted a second term but emphasized that preserving democracy was paramount. He endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris to unify Democrats and the country.
This was Biden’s first public appearance since stepping out of the race on July 21, allowing Harris to seek the party’s nomination. The President faced increasing pressure from colleagues and donors over doubts about his ability to serve another term after a poor debate performance against Republican Donald Trump. Biden did not address how his campaign faltered or the likelihood of losing to Trump if he stayed in the race, nor did he mention the ongoing concerns about his health and mental acuity. Polls indicate a boost for Harris since taking over, making it a close contest between her and Trump if she secures the nomination.
Biden began his 11-minute Oval Office address by stating his love for the country above all. With his family and key staff present, he declared his decision to pass the torch to a new generation as the best way to unite the nation. He vowed to complete his current term by January next year and praised Harris as an “experienced, tough, capable” partner. Biden reiterated that his decision was not based on personal ambition but on the need to save democracy, emphasizing that in America, the people hold the power, not kings or dictators.
As the press was leaving, applause was heard from family and staff. Trump, 78, criticized Biden’s speech and Harris at a rally, calling her a radical leftist. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre denied that Biden’s exit was due to health issues and dismissed claims of a cover-up regarding his cognitive abilities.
Harris is actively campaigning and recently addressed the Zeta Phi Beta sorority in Indianapolis, highlighting the stark choice between future and past visions for the nation. She aims to become the first black, South-Asian American woman president but needs strong support from black voters.
Black Lives Matter criticized the Democrats for allegedly manipulating black voters by pushing Harris’s candidacy to satisfy billionaire donors. Biden is the first sitting president since 1968 not to seek re-election, following Lyndon Johnson’s withdrawal during the Vietnam War.
Some Republicans have called for Biden to resign, questioning his ability to govern if he cannot run for office, a claim the White House denies. On Thursday, Biden is set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the families of US hostages in Gaza.
