WASHINGTON. President Joe Biden, in a heartfelt address from the Oval Office on Wednesday, announced his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, citing concerns for the country’s future. This marked his first public comment since his sudden exit from the campaign.
During his 11-minute speech, Biden evoked past presidents such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln, expressing his deep reverence for the office he will vacate in six months. “I revere this office,” Biden stated. “But I love my country more.”
At 81, Biden had faced mounting pressure from within the Democratic Party to step down after a challenging debate performance on June 27. He previously resisted, stating that only “the Lord Almighty” could persuade him to withdraw. Ultimately, he was swayed by internal polling indicating a potential loss to Republican contender Donald Trump and the risk of negatively impacting fellow Democrats.
“I have decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. That is the best way to unite our nation,” Biden declared, emphasizing his desire to heal divisions within the party and ensure a unified effort in the upcoming election.
Biden’s address included warnings about the potential dangers of a Trump victory, although he refrained from mentioning Trump by name. He underscored the importance of safeguarding democracy, stating, “Nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition.”
He also spoke about the unique nature of American democracy: “The great thing about America is here, kings and dictators do not rule. The people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hands. The idea of America – lies in your hands.”
The speech, which was the fourth Biden has delivered from the Oval Office since his inauguration, was witnessed by members of his family and senior advisers. The event concluded with applause from staff and a gathering in the White House Rose Garden, where cheers and ice cream followed.
Biden, who will be the oldest U.S. president at the time of his departure on January 20, 2025, joins a rare list of presidents who chose not to seek a second term, including James K. Polk and Lyndon B. Johnson.
Despite facing scrutiny over his debate performance and recent verbal slip-ups, the White House has denied any cognitive issues. In his remaining months, Biden plans to focus on key issues such as strengthening NATO, countering Russian aggression in Ukraine, pursuing a Gaza ceasefire, and advocating for Supreme Court reforms. He is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday to discuss the Gaza situation.
Reflecting on his political journey, Biden concluded, “The defense of democracy is more important than any title. I draw strength, and find joy, in working for the American people. But this sacred task of perfecting our Union is not about me. It’s about you. Your families. Your futures. It’s about ‘We the People.’”
Gary P Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
