In a candid interview with USA Today released Wednesday, President Joe Biden expressed confidence that he could have defeated President-elect Donald Trump in the 2024 election, even as he acknowledged doubts about his stamina for another term.
Biden’s remarks come amid post-election tensions within the Democratic Party, where blame has reportedly been traded between his and Vice President Kamala Harris’ teams for their loss.
The president’s assertion that he could have prevailed over Trump is likely to stir debate or comedic reaction, given his ultra-low approval ratings, public concerns about his age, and criticism of his debate performance during the campaign.
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When asked whether he believed he could have won the election, Biden responded, “It’s presumptuous to say that, but I think yes.” He attributed his confidence to polling data he had reviewed, though he admitted uncertainty about his capacity to serve another term.
“I don’t know,” Biden said when asked if he had the vigor for four more years. “Who the hell knows? So far, so good. But who knows what I’m going to be when I’m 86 years old?”
Biden’s comments reflect both his confidence in his political capabilities and the reality of his age-related challenges, a factor that was a focal point of the 2024 campaign.
Despite widespread concerns about his age and approval ratings, the president’s decision to seek reelection angered many Democrats. Polls consistently showed voters from both parties expressing doubts about his ability to lead effectively at 82 years old.
His campaign struggled to overcome perceptions of economic malaise and lingering questions about his mental fitness, particularly after a debate performance that was widely criticized as lackluster.
Since the election, tensions between Biden’s team and Vice President Kamala Harris’ camp have reportedly escalated, with both sides blaming each other for the loss. Democratic insiders have expressed frustration over the campaign’s failure to address key voter concerns and effectively counter Trump’s messaging.
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In the interview, Biden also discussed his ongoing considerations regarding preemptive pardons for figures such as former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) and former health adviser Anthony Fauci. Both could face scrutiny under the incoming Trump administration.
The decision, Biden said, would hinge on Trump’s key appointments, but he revealed that he urged Trump during their Oval Office meeting to avoid pursuing political retribution.
Biden noted that Trump had even complimented some of his administration’s economic achievements. “He thought I was leaving with a good record,” Biden said.
While Biden’s tenure as president is coming to an end, his comments underscore the continued division within the Democratic Party and the challenges the party faces in charting a new course.
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