Joe
Washington, D.C. – In a primetime address from the Oval Office on Wednesday night, President Joe Biden announced his decision to abruptly end his re-election campaign.
Despite widespread concern about his mental acuity, he emphasized his commitment to remain in office until January.
“I revere this office, but I love my country more,” the 81-year-old president stated, making his first extended public remarks since announcing his decision on Sunday to step aside and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris.
“It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president, but the defense of democracy – which is at stake – I think is more important than any title,” Biden said. Seated next to him during the address was his son Hunter, who has been at the center of several scandals.
The president, who has largely remained out of the public eye while recuperating from COVID-19, said his decision to step down was aimed at uniting the Democratic Party, which has been divided over his cognitive fitness and electability against Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump.
“When you elected me to this office, I promised to always level with you, to tell you the truth,” Biden said. He did not directly address concerns about his mental decline during the 11-minute address. “In recent weeks, it’s become clear to me I need to unite my party … but nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy – and that includes personal ambition.”
Biden explained that passing the torch to a new generation is the best way to unite the nation. “You know, there is a time and a place for long years of experience in public life. There’s also a time and a place for new voices, fresh voices —yes, younger voices. And that time and place is now.”
In his endorsement of Harris, Biden said, “I’d like to thank our great vice president, Kamala Harris. She’s experienced. She’s tough. She’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country. Now the choice is up to you, the American people.”
The nation now awaits the next steps as Vice President Harris takes the lead in the Democratic campaign, with the future of American democracy hanging in the balance.
Oscar
