President Joe Biden gave a solemn Oval Office address following his announcement that he would not seek reelection.
He urged the nation to “pass the torch” to the younger generation and poised to inherit the mantle of American politics, in his likely final Oval Office address.
During his speech, Biden explained his decision to bow out of the upcoming race, saying: “My mission has become clear to me. I need to unite my party in this critical endeavour.”
“I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, my vision for America’s future all merited a second term.
“But nothing, nothing, can come in the way of saving our democracy. So, I’ve decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. It’s the best way to unite our nation.”
He continued: “I revere this office, but I love my country more.
“It’s been the honour of my life to serve as your president. But in the defense of democracy, which is at stake, I think it’s more important than any title.”
For the remaining six months in his term, Biden plans to be focused on the job of the presidency and is expected to promise: “I will continue to lower costs for hard-working families and grow our economy.
“I will keep defending our personal freedoms and our civil rights — from the right to vote — to the right to choose.”
“The defense of democracy is more important than any titl. I draw strength, and find joy, in working for the American people. But this sacred task of perfecting our Union is not about me. It’s about you. Your families. Your futures. It’s about ‘We the People.'”
This will likely be Biden’s last Oval Office in his Presidency.
Biden’s address, which centered on his reasons for withdrawing, his presidential achievements, and the country’s direction, follows his teaser posted on X last Tuesday about discussing “on what lies ahead” and his commitment to “finish the job for the American people.”
After returning to Washington, Biden sidestepped questions about the content of his upcoming message, telling the press: “Why don’t you wait and hear what I say?”
This happened on Tuesday, ending a nearly week-long seclusion at his Rehoboth Beach residence following a second COVID-19 infection. According to a letter from his physician, Kevin O’Connor, which was made public on Tuesday, Biden has since tested negative for the virus and is no longer exhibiting symptoms.
DON’T MISS…
Donald Trump yells ‘Kamala you’re fired’ in Apprentice reference bashing Harris [VIDEO]
Trump says he will debate Harris despite team being ‘worried’ about facing her [COMMENT]
Kamala Harris campaign memo shows blueprint of path to victory against Trump [INSIGHT]
Clutching a blue paper mask, he informed the press that “I am feeling well” but sidestepped other queries, such as whether Vice President Kamala Harris can triumph over Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.
Biden has been out of the public eye since July 17, but he dialed into a campaign meeting on Monday to address staff and voice his backing for Harris’ bid to succeed him, a day after announcing his exit from the race.
Three days have passed since Biden reluctantly bowed out of the race, succumbing to mounting pressure from top Democratic leaders concerned about his ability to serve a second term due to frailty. He swiftly threw his support behind Harris as his successor.
He exclaimed: “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 penned in a letter posted on X. “I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision.”
“My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President,” Biden shared. “And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year.”
