Delaware, US, July 22: In a pivotal decision, US President Joe Biden has announced he will not seek re-election in the upcoming presidential race, citing the best interests of his party and the nation. This announcement comes just four months before the scheduled presidential elections. Biden stated he will address the nation later this week to provide more details about his decision.
Biden’s Decision and Its Context
In a letter posted on X, President Biden stated, “And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
Biden’s decision follows mounting pressure from prominent Democratic Party members who called for his withdrawal after a challenging debate performance against Republican candidate and former president Donald Trump on June 27. His performance in the nationally televised 90-minute debate was widely scrutinized, adding to the calls for his withdrawal.
My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best… pic.twitter.com/x8DnvuImJV
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 21, 2024
Reflecting on Achievements
Biden emphasized the accomplishments of his administration, noting significant progress over the past three and a half years. He highlighted the nation’s strong economic standing, historic investments in infrastructure, and advancements in healthcare.
“Today, America has the strongest economy in the world. We’ve made historic investments in rebuilding our Nation, in lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, and in expanding affordable health care to a record number of Americans,” Biden stated.
Legislative Milestones
The President also underscored legislative milestones achieved during his tenure. These include providing critical care to veterans exposed to toxic substances, passing the first gun safety law in 30 years, appointing the first African American woman to the Supreme Court, and enacting the most significant climate legislation in history.
“America has never been better positioned to lead than we are today,” Biden added, reflecting on the strengthened global alliances and the preservation of democracy.
Gratitude and Future Outlook
Biden expressed his gratitude to Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her an “extraordinary partner,” and thanked all those who worked tirelessly for his re-election campaign. He acknowledged the resilience and cooperation of the American people in overcoming significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis.
“I know none of this could have been done without you, the American people. Together, we overcame a once-in-a-century pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We’ve protected and preserved our Democracy. And we’ve revitalized and strengthened our alliances around the world. It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve as your President,” Biden noted.
As he concludes his term, Biden reiterated his belief in the unity and capability of the American people. “I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America,” he concluded.
Address to the Nation
President Biden is expected to elaborate further on his decision and future plans in an address to the nation later this week. This announcement marks a significant moment in US political history as the Democratic Party prepares to navigate the upcoming election without its incumbent candidate.
