President Joe Biden Drops out of the Presidential Election Race
Analyzing Biden's Plans and Reassurances Amidst Political Turmoil
President Joe Biden’s prime-time address on Wednesday was designed to tell the nation — and, frankly, the rest of the world — “what lies ahead, and how I will finish the job for the American people.” We all had questions, and Biden sought to answer them.
A Tumultuous Few Weeks
Biden’s speech capped a truly wild few weeks in what has become a truly unprecedented election campaign. It all started following Biden’s disastrous debate performance, less than four weeks ago. Two weeks after the debate, as Biden’s critics continued to call for an internal reckoning, a would-be assassin climbed onto a Pennsylvania roof and almost killed former President Donald Trump in the middle of an otherwise unremarkable weekend rally. This act of violence was followed by the political earthquake of Biden’s withdrawing from the presidential race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place at the top of the ticket.
The Nature of the Address
Despite the political turmoil, Biden’s address was a formal one, steering clear of diving too heavily into politics. In the weeks leading up to the speech, Biden hosted a NATO summit, sat for two prime-time interviews, and addressed the nation about the attempt on Trump’s life, all while recovering from COVID-19 in isolation at his Rehoboth Beach home in Delaware.
Key Themes from the President's Speech
Biden’s speech was the right move at the right time. Here are four key themes that stood out during his address.
1. A Call to Action, Not a Farewell
First and foremost, Biden made it clear that this was not a farewell address but a “there is still work to be done” speech. While he highlighted many accomplishments of his administration, he also emphasized what he still hopes to achieve. His decision to drop out of the campaign makes him, surprisingly, a lame-duck president, but he conveyed that this should not mean he sits back and wastes the remaining five months of 2024. Notably, he expanded on his promise to lower prescription drug costs for all people, not just those on Medicare Part B.
2. Countering Political Adversaries
Biden forcefully pushed back on the un-American rhetoric from House Speaker Mike Johnson. Johnson, R-La., had demanded that Biden resign immediately, claiming that if he “is not fit to run for president, he is not fit to serve as president.” Biden condemned this rhetoric as dangerous, irresponsible, and mean, emphasizing the importance of unity and stability during such critical times.
3. Reinforcing Foreign Policy Commitments
Biden has consistently emphasized his work on foreign policy, and this speech was no different. He highlighted the ongoing need for support in Ukraine and Taiwan, countries that may face uncertainty if Trump wins in November. Biden underscored the importance of maintaining international alliances and securing funding to support these nations.
4. Reassuring the Nation
Perhaps most importantly, Biden worked to reassure the country that despite overwhelming partisanship and rhetoric, the democracy he has defended for the last 3½ years is strong enough to survive and prosper. He pledged to continue working to bolster its foundations for as long as he possibly can, offering a message of resilience and hope.
Conclusion: The Consoler in Chief
Biden has often been called our country’s consoler-in-chief, and after the last month, his reassurance was much needed. His address was not just a reflection on past achievements but a clarion call to continue the work ahead, ensuring stability and progress in a time of unprecedented political upheaval. Biden’s vision for the future, combined with his steadfast commitment to American values, provided a much-needed beacon of hope in these turbulent times.