President Joe Biden's National Address
First Public Statement After Democratic Presidential Candidate Withdrawal
"Focusing on Remaining Presidential Term"
Supports Harris as "Capable and Strong Leader"
U.S. President Joe Biden, who abruptly resigned from the presidential candidacy amid controversy over his age, stated in a national address on the 24th (local time) that "America is more important than the presidency." He reaffirmed his support for Vice President Kamala Harris, emphasizing that the defense of democracy and the future of America depend on the upcoming November election.
That night, President Biden explained the background of his decision to withdraw from the candidacy in the Oval Office at the White House, saying, "I have decided that the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. This is the best way to unite the nation." He began by mentioning former U.S. presidents such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln, stating, "Serving as president has been a great honor in my life," but added, "I revere this position, but I love our country more."
President Biden characterized the upcoming November election as a choice between "progress and regression," "hope and hatred," and "unity and division." He said, "Defending democracy is more important than anything else," and added, "The sacred mission to complete our union is not about me. It is for you. For your families, your future, and 'our people'." He repeatedly emphasized that his retirement is a decision made to protect American democracy.
This national address attracted early attention as it was President Biden's first public appearance since announcing his withdrawal from the candidacy on the 21st. Facing calls to resign after his defeat in the first TV debate last month, he declared his withdrawal while quarantined at his Delaware home due to a COVID-19 reinfection and returned to the White House the night before.
In his speech, President Biden also confirmed his intention to focus on completing his administration's agenda during the remaining term until January next year. This effectively dismissed calls from some Republicans demanding his resignation from the presidency. He stated, "For the next six months, I will focus on my duties as president," and promised to "reduce the cost burden on hardworking families and grow the economy." He also pledged to protect individual freedoms and civil rights and to drive out all forms of violence, including political violence, within the United States. On international issues, he mentioned efforts to end the Gaza Strip war and to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin, who invaded Ukraine.
Alongside this, President Biden once again expressed his support for Vice President Harris, who is widely expected to be the Democratic presidential candidate in the November election. Biden said, "I have already stated my opinion," praising Harris as "an experienced, strong, and capable leader." He then urged voters by saying, "Now the choice is up to the American people."
In his speech, President Biden emphasized that the greatness of America lies in being governed by the "people," not by "kings and dictators." He also defined America as "a nation of promise and possibility," "a country where dreamers, doers, and ordinary Americans accomplish extraordinary things." Expressing gratitude for the love and support from the American people, President Biden concluded his speech by saying, "History is in your hands. Power is in your hands," and urged, "Let us protect democracy together."
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