Joe Biden has officially stepped away from the race for the presidency of the United States. After weeks of resisting pressure from Democrats—and even from former supporters like George Clooney—to withdraw from the presidential campaign, the 81-year-old president announced his decision on Sunday, July 21, 2024.
In a letter shared on his X account, Biden addressed the nation about his tenure. He highlighted the significant progress made over the past three and a half years, saying, “Today, the United States has the strongest economy in the world. We have made historic investments in rebuilding our nation, reducing prescription drug costs for seniors, and expanding affordable healthcare to a record number of Americans. We’ve provided crucial care to a million veterans exposed to toxic substances. We’ve enacted the first gun safety legislation in 30 years, appointed the first Black woman to the Supreme Court, and passed the most significant climate legislation in history. The U.S. has never been better positioned to lead than it is today.”
Biden expressed gratitude, stating, “I know that none of this could have been accomplished without you, the American people. Together, we’ve navigated a once-in-a-century pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We’ve safeguarded our democracy, revitalized, and strengthened alliances worldwide.” He continued, “It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. While I initially intended to run for reelection, I believe it is best for my party and the country that I step back and focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
He promised to address the nation in more detail later in the week. In closing, Biden conveyed his deep gratitude to all who worked hard for his reelection, thanked Vice President Kamala Harris for her exceptional partnership, and acknowledged the trust the American people have placed in him. “I firmly believe that there is nothing the United States cannot achieve when we come together as one,” he affirmed.
Following this announcement, Biden’s letter included a handwritten signature below the typed message. However, the president sidestepped questions regarding his physical and mental abilities to serve, especially after his challenging performance in the presidential debate against 78-year-old Donald Trump, which included noticeable memory lapses in public speeches.
With Biden’s withdrawal, Democrats are now racing to support a new presidential candidate with less than four months remaining before the November election. Notably, Biden had been sidelined from the campaign just a week prior due to a COVID diagnosis, having stated that he would withdraw from the race if a doctor advised him of any emerging “medical condition.”
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