President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt plea to voters to protect the nation's democracy during an Oval Office address, where he explained his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris. Stressing that “the defense of democracy is more important than any title,” Biden subtly criticized former President Donald Trump without naming him, reiterating that “nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy.”
In his ten-minute address, Biden reflected on his five decades in public service, emphasizing that he was stepping aside for the good of the country. “I revere this office,” he said. “But I love my country more.” This voluntary handover of power is reminiscent of Lyndon Johnson’s decision in 1968 not to seek reelection during the Vietnam War.
Earlier, Trump had renewed his baseless claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election at a campaign rally, which Biden called “the worst attack on our democracy since the Civil War.” Biden did not directly address the debate performance against Trump that led to a crisis of confidence among Democrats but acknowledged the pressure from party elites and voters to step aside. He stated, “I have decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation,” advocating for “fresh voices, yes, younger voices” to unite the nation.
Biden, who pledged to remain active in office until his term ends on January 20, 2025, outlined his priorities for the remaining months, including ending the Israel-Hamas conflict, advancing cancer research, addressing climate change, and pushing for Supreme Court reform. He also emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, describing it as a choice between freedom and chaos, and reaffirmed that in America, “kings and dictators do not rule.”
Biden's legacy, intertwined with Harris’s electoral success, hinges on his administration’s accomplishments and his decision to step aside. He expressed his intention to support Harris’s campaign through events and fundraisers, albeit less intensively than if he were running. Harris’s advisors face the challenge of balancing Biden's involvement, considering his declining popularity and questions about his fitness for office.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre dismissed any notion of Biden resigning before the election, allowing Harris to run as an incumbent, as “ridiculous.” She affirmed that Biden had no regrets about his decisions and clarified that his withdrawal was not related to his health.
Biden, joined by his family off-camera during the address, expressed gratitude for his time as president, recalling his journey from a child with a stutter to the Oval Office. Following his speech, Biden thanked hundreds of aides gathered in the Rose Garden for their service, while supporters outside held signs of appreciation and a brass band played.