Biden Steps Aside, Urges Unity and Defense of Democracy
President Joe Biden, speaking from the Oval Office with visible emotion, announced he will not seek re-election in 2024, saying he loves the country more than the presidency itself. He framed the decision as a chance to unite his party and pass the torch to a new generation of leaders.
Reflecting on a pivotal moment in American history, Biden urged the nation to choose unity over division and to uphold enduring values like freedom, justice, and decency. He emphasized that defending democracy is bigger than any one individual, calling on Americans to come together against hate and extremism.
In the months ahead, Biden pledged to continue fighting for affordable living, civil rights, voting rights, climate action, and gun safety. He reaffirmed his Cancer Moonshot initiative and voiced ongoing support for Supreme Court reform.
On the global stage, he highlighted his administration’s efforts to avoid new wars, strengthen NATO, counter China’s rise, support Ukraine, pursue peace in the Middle East, and secure the safe return of hostages and wrongfully detained Americans.
Looking back on his presidency, Biden cited accomplishments including recovery from the pandemic and economic crisis, record job creation, rising wages, reduced inflation, and the smallest racial wealth gap in two decades. He celebrated progress in manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare access, prescription drug affordability, and veterans’ support.
He also noted landmark achievements: historic climate legislation, the first major gun control law in decades, falling violent crime rates, stronger borders, and the appointment of the first Black woman to the Supreme Court. “Our administration,” he said, “reflected America and served all its citizens.”
Biden expressed gratitude to Vice President Kamala Harris for her steadfast partnership and urged Americans to protect the republic, quoting Benjamin Franklin: it must be “kept.”
He concluded by honoring the nation’s promise—that ordinary Americans can achieve extraordinary things—and called for unity to safeguard democracy for generations to come.