President Biden faced the nation on Wednesday night, talking about the abrupt finish of his reelection campaign and insisting he will serve as president until January.
“I revere this office, but I love my country more,” the 81-year-old president said.
Biden continued, “It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president, but the defense of democracy – which is at stake – I think is more important than any title.”
Sitting next to him during the address was his scandal-embattled son, Hunter.
“When you elected me in this office, I promised to always level with you, to tell you the truth,” said Biden — despite not directly acknowledging or addressing concerns about his apparent mental decline in his 11-minute address.
“In recent weeks, it’s become clear to me I need to unite my party … but nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy – and that includes personal ambition,” Biden said.
“So I’ve decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. That’s the best way to unite our nation,” he said.
He stressed the need for leadership, by saying “You know, there is a time and a place for long years of experience in public life. There’s also a time and a place for new voices, fresh voices —yes, younger voices. And that time of place is now.”
Biden then outlined his agenda for the rest of his term — gun violence, climate crisis, and Supreme Court reform which he said was “central to our democracy.”
The President also looked back on some of his legislative achievements since he took office, including COVID-19 and infrastructure bills, as well as measures financing green-energy projects and veteran health care.
With an eye toward the upcoming election, Biden gave his “total endorsement” to Harris adding: “I’d like to thank our great vice president, Kamala Harris. She’s experienced. She’s tough. She’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country. Now the choice is up to you, the American people.”
In his speech, Biden seemed clearer and more awake than he has in weeks as he spoke deliberately from a teleprompter. He looked exceedingly tan, and his white hair had been carefully greased back.
The speech came as many Republicans are insisting for President Joe Biden to resign effective immediately due to his cognitive decline in recent rallies and interviews.
