Ex-President Barack Obama has spoken out about President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election in 2024. Obama’s statement, issued on July 21, 2024, lauded Biden, his former vice president, for his character and presidential achievements.
In his public statement, Obama hailed Biden as a true patriot, praising his resilience and dedication to the nation. “I came to admire Joe’s character in the years we worked alongside one another,” said Obama, referring to their term in office together from 2009-2017. He emphasized how Biden’s character played a key role in “saving the country from ruin over the past few years.”
Obama extolled Biden’s accomplishments in managing the COVID-19 pandemic, stimulating job growth, and tackling climate change. “Joe’s economic, international, and climate change victories during his administration have set a high standard,” stated Obama. He also spotlighted Biden’s success in advancing gun safety legislation and reducing prescription drug prices, noting how Biden “reminded Americans of the country’s core values and the significance of democracy, rule of law, and accountability.”
Obama underlined Biden’s pivotal role in defeating ex-President Donald Trump in the 2020 election, dubbing it as Biden’s most significant accomplishment. “His leadership in keeping Trump out of office in 2020 cannot be overstated,” remarked Obama. He acknowledged that Biden’s choice not to run in 2024 was likely challenging, considering his persistence and determination. “I’ve never known Joe to back down from a fight, so I know this decision was tough on him,” he said.
Addressing the future of the Democratic Party, Obama expressed confidence in the party’s leadership to confront upcoming challenges and select a strong candidate for the 2024 election. “I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges,” he declared, without endorsing Harris or any other potential candidate. “We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead, but I believe we will emerge stronger and more united.”
Ex-President Obama and his wife Michelle Obama have declared their support for Vice President Kamala Harris.
Harris, who has Biden’s endorsement, thanked him and vowed to continue their shared vision. “I am honored by President Biden’s endorsement and committed to carrying forward the vision we share for a generous, prosperous, and united America,” Harris stated.
Biden’s withdrawal announcement has stirred the political arena, generating reactions from various sectors. Former President Donald Trump, characterized Biden as “the worst president, by far,” underscoring the polarized state of the current political climate.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have lauded Biden’s decision, describing it as a “selfless act” that prioritizes the nation’s interests.
Reports have hinted that Obama privately urged Biden to reconsider his re-election bid for the good of the party, though these discussions were not revealed until after Biden’s announcement. This is not the first instance of Obama’s cautious approach to endorsing a candidate; in 2016, he waited until Hillary Clinton secured the Democratic nomination before offering his support.
The Democratic National Convention, where the party’s nominee will be officially chosen, is anticipated to be a major event, with Biden’s vision for America’s future at its core. Obama expressed his conviction that Biden’s legacy and the principles he stood for will continue to inspire the party and the nation. “Joe’s example has reminded Americans of what we stand for,” Obama stated. “His decision to step aside reflects his unwavering commitment to the greater good.”