President Biden Explains Why He Quit the 2024 Race, Paving the Way for Vice President Harris

In a historic Oval Office address, President Biden announces his withdrawal from the 2024 race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee and highlighting his vision for America’s future. In a poignant address from the Oval Office on Wednesday evening, President Joe Biden announced he would not seek re-election in 2024, marking a significant moment in his storied political career. This decision, delivered with solemn resolve, underscores his commitment to unity and his belief in the necessity of passing the torch to a new generation. Biden’s speech, his fourth from the Oval Office, reflects both the culmination of his half-century in public service and the beginning of a new chapter for the nation.

Passing the Torch

Standing behind the Resolute Desk, President Biden framed his decision within the context of America’s current inflection point. He emphasized the need for unity, stating, “In recent weeks, it has become clear to me that I need to unite my party in this critical endeavor. I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, my vision for America’s future, all merited a second term. But nothing, nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition. So I’ve decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. It’s the best way to unite our nation.”

Vice President Kamala Harris is now positioned to become the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election. This shift follows Biden’s decision to step down, solidifying Harris’s standing within the party as she has garnered the necessary delegate support. Her potential candidacy marks a historic milestone, reflecting the evolving landscape of American politics.

Achievements of the Biden Administration

Reflecting on his tenure, Biden highlighted his administration’s notable achievements, including the creation of nearly 16 million new jobs, wage increases, and a decline in inflation. He took pride in closing the racial wealth gap, revitalizing American manufacturing, and maintaining the country’s leadership in science and innovation. Key legislative victories under his administration include reducing prescription drug costs, expanding healthcare access, supporting veterans affected by toxic substances, and passing landmark climate and gun safety laws.

Continuing the Work

Biden outlined his agenda for the remaining months of his presidency, reaffirming his dedication to continuing his efforts to bolster the economy, lower costs for families, and protect civil rights. “Over the next six months, I will be focused on doing my job as president. That means I will continue to lower costs for hard-working families, grow our economy. I will keep defending our personal freedoms and civil rights, from the right to vote to the right to choose. I will keep calling out hate and extremism, making it clear there is no place, no place in America for political violence or any violence ever, period,” he stated.

He also highlighted his commitment to diversity and inclusion, celebrating his appointments, including the first Black woman to the Supreme Court. “I’ve kept my commitment to appoint the first Black woman to the Supreme Court of the United States of America. I also kept my commitment to have an administration that looks like America and be a president for all Americans. That’s what I’ve done,” Biden declared.

Endorsing Kamala Harris

Biden praised Vice President Kamala Harris as a seasoned and formidable leader, emphasizing her capabilities and dedication. “She is experienced, she is tough, she is capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country,” he said, underscoring his confidence in her ability to lead.