President Biden addresses the nation for the first time since ending presidential race

WASHINGTON D.C. —  President Joe Biden addressed the nation today from the Oval Office, in his first speech to the American people since announcing the end of his 2024 presidential campaign. He emphasized that his decision to drop out was in defense of democracy.

Biden began his address by pointing out portraits of what he called “extraordinary American presidents.” 

“Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the immortal words that guide this nation. George Washington, who showed us presidents are not kings. Abraham Lincoln, who implored us to reject malice. Franklin Roosevelt, who inspired us to reject fear.” 

Biden said it has been the honor of his life to serve as president, 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.’ We can never forget that.” 

Deciding between moving ‘forward or backward’

“America is at an inflection point. The decisions we make now will determine the fate of our nation and the world for decades to come,” Biden said. 

America will have to choose between moving forward or backward, between hope and hate and between unity and division, he said. 

“We have to decide– do we still believe in honesty, decency, respect?”

Biden discussed that in recent weeks, it has become clear to him that he needed to unite the Democratic party, in order to protect our democracy. 

“I decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. There’s also a time and a place for new voices, fresh voices; yes younger voices,” he said. 

He emphasized his support for Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, saying “I made my choice. I made my views known. [Harris is] experienced. She’s tough. She’s capable. Now the choice is up to you, the American people.”

Looking forward

For the next six months, Biden says he will continue to do his job as President of the United States. He said he will lower costs for families, protect civil rights, call out hate and extremism. 

“There is no place in America for political violence or any violence.”

He said he will speak out against gun violence and work on Supreme Court reform, which is “critical to our democracy,” he said. 

“Remember who we are. We’re the United States of America, and there’s nothing beyond our capacity if we do it together. So let’s do it together. Protect our democracy.”

Read more: 

• Harris has support of enough Democratic delegates to become party’s presidential nominee: AP survey
• Understanding the ‘uncharted territory’ of Biden’s decision to drop out of the race