Former U.S. President Barack Obama praised President Joe Biden, who withdrew from the Democratic presidential nomination on the 21st (local time), as "the greatest patriot." However, he did not express support for any specific candidate, including Vice President Kamala Harris, who is considered the top contender to replace President Biden.
In a statement following President Biden's announcement to withdraw from the presidential race, former President Obama said, "Biden is not only my dear friend and partner but also one of the most consequential presidents in American history," adding, "Today, we are once again reminded that he is the greatest patriot."
He listed the Biden administration's achievements, including ending the COVID-19 pandemic, creating jobs, passing gun control legislation, and responding to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and evaluated, "President Biden has freed us from four years of chaos, lies, and division under the Trump administration." He also pointed out, "He knows better than anyone how everything he has fought for throughout his life and everything the Democratic Party stands for would be at risk if former President Trump returned to the White House and the Republicans took control of Congress."
He continued, "President Biden's decision to look at the political landscape and pass the torch to a new candidate is undoubtedly one of the toughest decisions of his life," emphasizing, "He would not have made this decision if he did not believe it was right for America. This is evidence of President Biden's love for the country and a historic example of a true public servant who prioritizes the interests of the American people over his own."
Former President Obama said, "We will be navigating uncharted waters ahead," and stressed, "I am confident that our party's leaders will create a process that allows outstanding candidates to emerge." However, he did not specifically mention who the outstanding candidate might be. He expressed, "I believe President Biden's vision for a generous, prosperous, and united America that offers opportunities for all will be fully revealed at the Democratic National Convention in August," and added, "I hope we can all carry that message of hope and progress through November and beyond."
During his eight years in office, former President Obama worked closely with Vice President Biden. He was also rumored within the party to be behind calls for Biden's withdrawal. After the fallout from a disastrous TV debate expanded, he reportedly conveyed the call for resignation to those around him, playing a decisive role in Biden's mid-campaign withdrawal.
Meanwhile, former President Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, stated, "President Biden will be remembered as the worst president in American history," and said, "Vice President Harris is easier to beat than President Biden."
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