President Biden Steps Aside, Urges Unity and Defense of Democracy

In a historic Oval Office address, President Joe Biden announced he will not seek re-election in 2024. Declaring that he loves the country more than the presidency, Biden said his decision aims to unite the Democratic Party and pass leadership to a new generation.

Biden reflected on what he called a defining moment for America. He urged the nation to reject division and extremism, and instead rally around shared values of freedom, justice, and decency. Defending democracy, he emphasized, is larger than any one individual and requires collective resolve.

Looking ahead, Biden pledged to remain fully engaged in the final months of his term. He committed to continuing his fight for affordable living, civil and voting rights, climate action, and gun safety. He reaffirmed his Cancer Moonshot initiative and called for Supreme Court reform to restore public trust.

On the global stage, Biden highlighted efforts to avoid new conflicts, strengthen NATO, and counter growing challenges from China. He reaffirmed support for Ukraine, efforts to stabilize the Middle East, and initiatives to bring home wrongfully detained Americans.

Reviewing his administration’s accomplishments, Biden cited economic recovery post-pandemic, record job growth, wage increases, and the lowest racial wealth gap in two decades. He pointed to progress in manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, prescription drug costs, and expanded support for veterans.

He concluded by recognizing landmark achievements, including major climate legislation, the first significant gun law reform in decades, reduced violent crime, stronger borders, and the historic appointment of the first Black woman to the Supreme Court. Thanking Vice President Kamala Harris as a strong partner, Biden urged Americans to protect democracy—reminding them of Benjamin Franklin’s warning: “A republic, if you can keep it.”