WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden spoke about his decision to not seek re-election, framing it as a “defense of democracy” in an Oval Office address Wednesday night.
“I revere this office, but I love my country more. The defense of democracy is more important than any title,” Biden said. “I draw strength and find joy in working for the American people. 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.’”
The Oval Office address marked the first time the President has spoken publicly about his decision since his surprising announcement that he was stepping away from the campaign and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place.
“I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, my vision for America’s future all merited a second term,” Biden said. “But nothing, nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition, so I’ve decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation.”
Biden and other Democrats have argued that former President Donald Trump, whose refusal to concede after he lost the 2020 election, is a threat to democracy and want to take America backwards.
On Wednesday, Biden said the American people now are faced with a choice about their future.
“America’s going to have to choose between moving forward or backward,” Biden said, without mentioning Trump’s name. “Between hope and hate. Between unity and division.”
The speech marked the beginning of Biden’s efforts to shape his legacy following a debate performance in late June that left members of his party calling for him to step aside as the Democratic nominee.
Biden thanked Harris, calling her “experienced, she’s tough, she’s capable” and an “incredible partner” during their time together in the administration.
“I’ve made my choice. I’ve made my views known. Now, the choice is up to you, the American people,” he said. “I ran for president four years ago because I believed, and still do, that the soul of America was at stake, the very nature of who we are was at stake. “And that’s still the case.”
