Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: In a historic Oval Office address, US President Joe Biden announced his decision to exit the 2024 presidential race, emphasizing the importance of uniting the nation and passing leadership to “younger voices.” The 81-year-old president praised his vice president, Kamala Harris, who is set to become the new Democratic presidential nominee.
“The defense of democracy, which is at stake, is more important than any title,” Biden stated. “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’s withdrawal marks the latest exit by any sitting president in US history. His decision came after significant pressure from Democrats, following a poor debate performance against former President Donald Trump that raised concerns about his age and mental acuity.
Speaking from the Resolute Desk, Biden called for an end to political divisions and stressed the nation’s strength against “any dictator or tyrant.” He acknowledged the need for new, fresh voices in leadership, stating, “There is a time and a place for new voices, fresh voices. Yes, younger voices. And that time and place is now.”
In a touching display of support, Biden’s family, including his wife Jill, daughter Ashley, son Hunter, and several grandchildren, were present in the Oval Office during his speech. Jill Biden later expressed gratitude on social media to those who supported Biden, while also endorsing Harris.
Biden’s exit has significantly impacted Trump’s campaign, which had focused on Biden’s age and mental acuity. Trump, now the oldest candidate in US history at 78, criticized Biden’s speech, calling it “barely understandable” and “sooo bad!”
Republicans have urged Biden to resign, arguing that if he is unfit for re-election, he is unfit to serve as president. Biden, however, vowed to continue his work on the economy and foreign policy issues, including a peace deal in the Middle East, until the end of his term.
Biden will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Thursday, with Netanyahu also scheduled to meet Harris and Trump separately. The US election campaign continues without Biden, with Trump criticizing Harris as his new opponent, calling her a “radical left lunatic.”
Harris, on the campaign trail, addressed a Black college sorority in Indianapolis, declaring, “I am fighting for our nation’s future.”
