President Joe Biden's National Address
First Public Speech After Democratic Presidential Candidate Withdrawal
"Focusing on Remaining Presidential Term"
"Strong Leader" Supporting Harris
U.S. President Joe Biden, who abruptly withdrew from the presidential race amid controversy over his age, stated in a national address on the 24th (local time) that "America is more important than the presidency." He emphasized that his decision to step down was a determination to pass leadership to a new generation, unite the American people, and protect democracy. Dismissing any intention to resign from the presidency during his remaining term, he reaffirmed his support for Vice President Kamala Harris, saying that "America's future" depends on the upcoming November election.
Biden Speaks on Background of Giving Up Reelection: 'Progress, Hope, Unity'
In a national address from the White House Oval Office that night, President Biden explained the reason behind his decision to withdraw from the race, 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 country." Beginning his speech by referencing past U.S. presidents including Thomas Jefferson, he said, "Serving as president has been a great honor in my life," but added, "I respect this office, but I love our country more," emphasizing that his decision to step down stems from loyalty to the nation. He further stated, "Nothing should stand in the way of protecting democracy. That includes personal ambition."
President Biden defined the November election as a choice between "progress and regression," "hope and hatred," and "unity and division." He urged the right choice, saying, "Protecting democracy is more important than anything else," and "Our sacred mission to complete our union is not about me. It is for you, your families, your future, and 'our people'." He also emphasized, "The great thing about America is that it is governed by the 'people,' not 'kings and dictators.'"
This national address attracted early attention as it was Biden's first public appearance since announcing his decision to forgo reelection on the 21st. After facing calls to withdraw following his defeat in last month's first TV debate, he declared his withdrawal while quarantined at his Delaware home due to a COVID-19 reinfection, returning to the White House the previous night. The Oval Office, the president's working office, is typically used only when U.S. presidents deliver their most important messages. This was only the fourth time Biden has delivered a speech from his office during his term.
No Mention of Trump...Dismisses Calls to Resign from Presidency
During the approximately 11-minute speech, President Biden did not mention his political rival, former President Donald Trump, even once. He also avoided direct references to the TV debate defeat, Democratic Party internal pressure, or concerns about his age that triggered his withdrawal decision. However, his remarks warning against threats to democracy were clearly interpreted as targeting former President Trump.
Instead, Biden emphasized his commitment to fulfilling his duties during the remaining term until January next year. This was a dismissal of calls from some Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, who have demanded that he resign from the presidency following his withdrawal from the race. He said, "For the next six months, I will focus on my duties as president," adding, "I will lower the cost burden on hardworking families and grow the economy." He also hinted at reforming the conservative-leaning federal Supreme Court. On international issues, he mentioned efforts to end the Gaza Strip war and to stop Russia's invasion of Ukraine. With a meeting scheduled the next day with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, it was seen as signaling that President Biden will play a key role in international affairs going forward.
He also reiterated his support for Vice President Kamala Harris, who is widely expected to be the Democratic presidential candidate in November. He said, "Vice President Harris is an experienced, strong, and capable leader," urging, "Now the choice is up to the American people." Expressing gratitude for the love and support from Americans, President Biden concluded his speech by saying, "History is in your hands," and "Let's protect democracy together."
Local Reactions: Trump Calls It a 'Bad Speech'
Former President Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, immediately criticized the speech on Truth Social, saying, "I could hardly understand the speech," and called it "very bad." He claimed, "Crooked Joe Biden and lying Kamala Harris bring great embarrassment to America," adding, "There has never been anything like this." Earlier, during a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina, Trump had verbally attacked Vice President Harris, calling her "the most incompetent vice president" and a "left-wing lunatic."
The progressive-leaning New York Times (NYT), which had fueled calls for Biden's withdrawal after the first TV debate, reported, "President Biden reminded voters of his achievements and emphasized that he will continue to focus on his duties as president for the remainder of his term," adding, "The speech clearly showed that the decision to withdraw was very difficult for him." However, the outlet also noted that even delivering the speech from his desk with a teleprompter appeared unstable, illustrating why his reelection bid faced difficulties.
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that "President Biden framed his decision to withdraw from the reelection race as a self-sacrifice to protect the nation." The Washington Post (WP) highlighted that he "emphasized democracy and criticized dictators," and "defined his legacy and explained his vision for the remainder of his term." Presidential historian David Eisenhower told CNN that Biden's speech, focused on the 'threat to democracy,' reminded him of speeches by former Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan.
During the national address, First Lady Jill Biden, son Hunter Biden, and other family members were present in the Oval Office. Before departing for the Olympic opening ceremony in Paris, France, Jill Biden watched her husband's speech and subsequently posted a handwritten letter on her X (formerly Twitter) account, thanking longtime supporters and stating, "Now it is time to place that trust in Kamala (Vice President Harris)."
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