President Joe Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office on Wednesday evening. He cited his decision to step aside from the 2024 presidential race as a critical move to preserve democracy.
“I revere this office, but I love my country more,” Biden said in a rare Oval Office speech, marking the start of the final chapter of his presidency and his half-century of public service.
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“It has been the honor of my life to serve as your president. But in defense of democracy, which is at stake and more important than any title, I draw strength and find joy in working for the American people,” he said.
No longer the presumptive Democratic nominee, Biden’s decision shifts him from a contender trying to prove his stamina and capabilities to take on former President Donald Trump to a lame-duck president.
He has now thrown his political support behind Vice President Kamala Harris after fellow Democrats convinced him he was not in a position to seek a second term.
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His speech was his first extensive remarks since announcing on Sunday that he would not run for re-election and the first public appearance many Americans have seen since he tested positive for COVID-19 last week.
Former President Trump blasted Biden’s speech, posting on Truth Social, “Crooked Joe Biden’s Oval Office speech was barely understandable, and sooo bad!”
“CROOKED JOE BIDEN AND LYIN’ KAMALA HARRIS ARE A GREAT EMBARRASSMENT TO AMERICA — THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A TIME LIKE THIS!” said Trump.
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