Joe Biden Withdraws from 2024 US Presidential Race
Joe Biden has announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, stating it is “in the best interest of my party and the country.” This decision follows months of speculation about his age and fitness to serve another term, amidst several high-profile gaffes and a poor debate performance.
In a letter addressed to “my fellow Americans,” Biden described serving as president as the “greatest honor of my life.” He explained that while he initially intended to seek re-election, he believes it is better for the party and the country to step down and focus on fulfilling his duties for the remainder of his term. Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee, urging Democrats to support her campaign.
“Democrats – it’s time to come together and beat Trump,” he added.
In a statement posted on X, Biden expressed his gratitude to those who worked for his re-election and thanked Vice President Harris for her partnership. He promised to address the nation later in the week to provide more details about his decision.
First Lady Jill Biden shared his statement on X with a heart emoji, showing her support. Kamala Harris, seen as the frontrunner to replace Biden, said she was honored by his endorsement and pledged to earn the nomination and unite the Democratic Party to defeat Donald Trump.
House Speaker Mike Johnson called for Biden to resign from the presidency, arguing that if he is not fit to run for president, he is not fit to serve as president. However, Biden plans to complete his term, which ends on January 20, 2025.
This decision comes after Biden’s debate with Trump, described by some Democrats as a “disaster,” where he appeared incoherent and stumbled over his words. Despite previously insisting he was best placed to defeat Trump, Biden faced growing calls within his party to step aside.
Biden made the decision to withdraw while recovering from COVID-19 at his Delaware home, after digesting data and polls showing his path to victory was slim. He informed his senior team of his decision shortly before announcing it on social media.
Former President Donald Trump reacted by criticizing Biden’s presidency and expressing confidence in defeating Harris. Trump stated on his platform, Truth Social, that Biden was never fit to serve as president.
Attention now turns to who will succeed Biden, with the Democratic National Convention in August likely to make the final decision. While Biden’s backing of Harris clears the way for her, other candidates might still challenge her for the nomination.
Barack Obama praised Biden but did not endorse Harris. He expressed confidence that the Democratic Party will manage the transition smoothly and emerge with an outstanding nominee.
Latest news
