U.S. President Joe Biden addresses the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Wednesday, July 24, 2024, about his decision to drop his Democratic presidential reelection bid.
Evan Vucci | Via Reuters
President Joe Biden on Wednesday night told the American public that “the defense of democracy is more important than any title,” as he explained his stunning decision to drop out of the presidential election and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s nominee.
“I draw strength, and find joy, in working for the American people,” Biden said from the Oval Office.
“But this sacred task of perfecting our union is not about me. It’s about you. Your families. Your futures. It’s about ‘We the People.’ “
Biden’s speech comes three days after the 81-year-old president quit the race against former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, and threw his full support behind Harris.
“I have decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation,” Biden said.
“That is the best way to unite our nation.”
The president, who plans to serve out the remainder of his first term, which ends in January, returned to Washington on Tuesday after several days of isolating at his Delaware beach house, recovering from Covid-19.
Biden’s decision to exit the race on Sunday during that Covid quarantine came after a weeks-long pressure campaign from Democratic lawmakers, donors and strategists calling on him to step aside after his stumbling June debate performance against Trump.
The debate fumble escalated lingering concerns regarding Biden’s age and fitness in waging a successful campaign against Trump, much less complete a second presidential term.
Since Sunday, the Biden-turned-Harris campaign has been in a honeymoon phase.
Harris has secured the endorsements of hundreds of Democratic lawmakers and governing officials, including those who were previously floated as potential contenders to replace Biden at the top of the ticket.
Those names have now been ruled out as potential Harris challengers and instead are on the list to become her running mate.
Harris has also raked in record levels of donations online and from high-dollar donors. Her first several campaign rallies have seen more attendees than any the campaign has seen this election cycle. And she is starting to catch up to Trump in the polls, according to initial voter surveys.
Biden reminded Americans about their power in the election.
“The great thing about America is here, kings and dictators do not rule,” the president intends to say.
“The people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hands. The idea of America – lies in your hands.”
This is developing news. Check back for updates.