On July 21, 2024, U.S. President Joe Biden announced that he would not seek re-election in 2024, instead endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee to face Donald Trump.
Former President Barack Obama praised Biden’s decision, calling it an act of patriotism and a testament to Biden’s dedication to the country.
“Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded — again — that he’s a patriot of the highest order,” Obama said in a statement.
Obama acknowledged Biden’s right to seek re-election given his record and the stakes of the upcoming election. However, he highlighted Biden’s decision to pass the torch as a reflection of his deep commitment to America’s best interests.
“For him to look at the political landscape and decide that he should pass the torch to a new nominee is surely one of the toughest decisions of his life. But I know he wouldn’t make this decision unless he believed it was right for America,” Obama stated.
Looking ahead, Obama expressed confidence in the Democratic Party’s ability to nominate a strong candidate who will continue Biden’s vision.
“I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August,” Obama wrote.
Obama assured the American people that democratic values such as the rule of law and accountability will be upheld, expressing gratitude to Joe and Jill Biden for their leadership during challenging times.
“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead,” Obama said. “But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges.”
Joe Biden Ends U.S. Re-election Bid
On July 21, 2024, U.S. President Joe Biden formally ended his re-election campaign, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate to succeed him. Biden, 81, stated in a written statement that it was the “greatest honor” to serve, but his withdrawal was “in the best interest of my party and the country.”
Harris, endorsed by Biden, expressed gratitude and determination to earn and win the nomination, pledging to unite the country against Donald Trump.
“We have 107 days until election day,” Harris said. “Together, we will fight. And together, we will win.”
Trump, who had recently pulled ahead in polling and survived an assassination attempt, was confirmed as the Republican nominee at the party’s convention in Milwaukee earlier in the week.
