In a surprising turn of events, US President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday, citing the best interests of his party and the country. The announcement came under growing pressure from fellow Democrats, who expressed concerns about his ability to win re-election. Biden, at 81, is the oldest person to ever hold the Oval Office. He will remain in the presidency until his term ends on January 20, 2025, and plans to address the nation this week.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Biden wrote, “While it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
The move dramatically reshapes the 2024 White House race, which has been fraught with tension and uncertainty in recent weeks. Biden’s performance in the June 27 debate was widely criticized, prompting calls from within his own party to step aside.
The decision comes amidst a series of high-profile incidents, including an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump on July 13 and the selection of Senator JD Vance as Trump’s running mate. Shortly after Biden’s announcement, Trump stated that Harris would be an easier opponent to defeat than Biden.
Hours after Biden’s exit, polling by Polymarket indicated that Trump was leading Harris 65-29. However, Harris has stated her determination to unite the Democratic Party and the nation to defeat Trump, adding that she intends to win the nomination.
Harris’s campaign officials, allies, and supporters are already reaching out to secure delegate support ahead of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, scheduled for August 19-22. Lawmakers expressed their concern that Biden’s candidacy could cost them the White House and control of Congress, leaving Democrats with limited power in Washington.
During the 2020 campaign, Biden described himself as a bridge to the next generation, a statement some interpreted as a commitment to serving only one term. This decision marks the end of that bridge, and the beginning of a new chapter in American politics.
