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Joe Biden made a stand for democracy in an honorable speech explaining his decision to quit his presidential race against Donald Trump. On Sunday, the President of the United States announced his decision to quit his re-election campaign, with less than four months to Election Day.
In his public note to Americans, the POTUS explained standing down was in the best interest of his party and the country. He also acknowledged how grateful he felt for the honor of serving the country for four years, promising to explain his decision in detail in a follow-up speech.
Joe Biden’s Step Down Is a Win for Democracy
On Wednesday, Joe Biden, who endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his replacement in the presidential race gave the anticipated speech from the White House Oval Office. In his address, the 81-year-old acknowledged that his “record as president,” vision for America’s future, and leadership in the world merited a second term. However, those ambitions were not worth putting the country’s democracy in jeopardy. He said,
“Nothing โ nothing โ can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition.”
Going further, Joe Biden explained that while he revered his office, he believe the best way forward “is to pass the torch to a new generation.” According to the president, doing so would invariably unite the nation “the best way.” Before bidding his final farewells though, the POTUS vowed to complete his term in office, making the remaining months worthwhile for the American people. He also doubled down on endorsing Kamala Harris as a worthy successor, calling her “experienced, tough, and capable.”
Americans React to Biden’s Historic Speech
Joe Biden’s presidential speech has sparked wild reactions nationwide, with most citizens airing their views on social media. Via X, former POTUS Barack Obama commended Biden for putting “the sacred cause of the country” above all else. Netizens also dished out accolades to Biden, admitting his historic speech touched them immensely.
Many commended Joe Biden for endorsing Kamala even in the face of a strong opponent like Donald Trump. Reacting to the address many drew a parallel to Trump, claiming Biden’s move made him the bigger person between both politicians. One Reddit user wrote,
“A kingly move from an honorable man who never wished to be king. Everything that is the opposite of Donald Trump.”
Another praised,
“Honestly I think ‘NOT Kamala’ was the plan for some of the loudest voices calling for him to step aside. For different reasons. Iโm proud of Joe for outmaneuvering them.”
A third added,
“Trump’s worst fear, losing to a black woman.”
Donald Trump, who watched Joe Biden’s speech from his private plane following a campaign in Charlotte expectedly did not seem impressed. In an X post capturing the moment, the former POTUS seemed unfazed, looking away from the screen as Biden continued his address.
He further aired his displeasure online, slamming the address as “barely understandable.” With his greatest contender out of the way, Donald Trump has turned his propaganda efforts to Kamala Harris, bashing the VP during his latest rally.
