'Biden, Who Gives Up Reelection, to Deliver National Address on the 24th... Likely to Emphasize Completing Government Tasks'

U.S. President Joe Biden, who abruptly withdrew from the presidential race amid controversy over his age, will deliver a national address on the 24th (local time).

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on the 23rd, President Biden stated, "Tomorrow at 8 p.m. Eastern Time, I will address the nation from the Oval Office to discuss upcoming challenges and how I plan to conclude my administration for the American people." This will be Biden's first national address since announcing his withdrawal from the Democratic presidential nomination on the 21st.

During this address, President Biden is expected to explain the reasons behind his withdrawal and express his commitment to fulfilling his administration's agenda during the remaining term until January next year. He is also likely to emphasize the necessity of Vice President Kamala Harris, whom he has endorsed, winning the presidential election to protect democracy. Biden has previously characterized former President Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, as a "threat to democracy."

Additionally, he is anticipated to reaffirm his determination to successfully complete key policy tasks, including economic policies known as "Bidenomics," climate change response, and foreign policies concerning Ukraine and the Middle East. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told ABC News, "President Biden has stepped down from the presidential race, but as president, he still has much work to do on behalf of the American people." The speech is scheduled to take place at 9 a.m. Korean time on the 25th.

Earlier, President Biden, who had canceled campaign events due to a COVID-19 reinfection and was isolating at his Delaware residence, will return to the White House late that night.

According to CNN, he called his entire campaign team the previous day and said, "I am not running in the November election, but I am still fully engaged." He added, "I have six months left in my presidential term. I am determined to accomplish as much as possible in both foreign and domestic policy." While acknowledging that his decision to withdraw was surprising, he emphasized it was the "right thing to do" and reiterated his support for Vice President Harris. CNN reported that President Biden's voice was hoarse due to COVID-19.