President Joe Biden, in a rare Oval Office address, spoke solemnly and with heartfelt emotion about his decision to step out of the 2024 presidential race. He emphasized that his choice was driven by a deep love for the country and a desire to see it thrive, passing the leadership torch to the next generation.
“I revere this office but I love my country more,” Biden expressed. “Serving as president has been the honor of my life, but our democracy is at risk and defending it is more important than any title.”
The prime-time speech was his first direct address to the American public since he made the surprising announcement three days prior that he would not be running for re-election. Instead, he endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor.
“I believe that my record as president, my global leadership, and my vision for America’s future all justified a second term,” Biden stated. “However, nothing is more important than saving our democracy. That includes setting aside personal ambition, which is why I’ve decided to hand over to a new generation.”
Biden praised Harris, calling her “experienced, tough, and capable,” and described her as an “incredible partner” throughout their time together in office.
“I’ve made my choice and shared my views. Now, it’s up to you, the American people,” he concluded.
He continued to highlight the stakes of this election, labeling it an “inflection point” for preserving the nation’s core principles.
“I ran for president four years ago because I believed the soul of America was at stake, and I still do,” Biden said. “That remains true today.”
Over the weekend, Biden responded to a month of mounting pressure from Democrats, spurred by concerns about his age and his debate performance, which cast doubt on his ability to best Donald Trump in another election. Initially resistant, Biden ultimately came to believe that a new path was required.
“There is a time and place for long years of experience,” he acknowledged. “But now is the time and place for new voices, fresh perspectives, and yes, younger voices.”
Biden took several minutes to recount his accomplishments, such as the economic recovery post-pandemic, reducing health care costs, passing a significant infrastructure law, and aiding Ukraine while working to strengthen NATO.
Looking forward, Biden spoke of his aspirations for his remaining months in office, including tackling gun violence, climate change, continuing economic improvements, and reforming the U.S. Supreme Court.
He did not address Republican criticisms questioning his fitness to serve, with the White House dismissing these concerns and GOP demands for his immediate resignation as “ridiculous.”
Following his historic address, cheers from hundreds of White House staffers echoed through the building. Family members, including his children Hunter and Ashley, first lady Jill Biden, and several grandchildren, were present in the Oval Office to support him.
Near the end of his speech, Biden became emotional, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation and achieve his long-held aspiration.
At 81, Biden began his political journey as one of the youngest senators ever and represented Delaware in the Senate for 36 years. He served as Vice President under Barack Obama for eight years before clinching the Democratic nomination for president in 2020, eventually defeating Trump.
“My fellow Americans, it has been the privilege of my life to serve this nation for over 50 years,” Biden said, reflecting on his journey. “From modest beginnings in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Claymont, Delaware, to the presidency—only in America could such a path exist.”
“I’ve poured my heart and soul into serving our nation, and I’ve been richly blessed by the love and support of the American people,” he expressed. “I hope you understand how deeply grateful I am to all of you.”
