In a poignant farewell address, President Joe Biden concluded a political career that spanned nine presidencies and touched nearly every pivotal moment in modern U.S. history. Biden, who entered national politics as a senator in 1972 and later served as vice-president under Barack Obama, delivered his final remarks under complex circumstances. Exiting after a single term, he is succeeded by a predecessor he has frequently warned could threaten U.S. democracy. The farewell address, a tradition dating back to George Washington, provided Biden an opportunity to reflect on his journey and achievements while issuing a stark warning about the current state of American politics.
Biden began his presidency with aspirations to restore America's soul but ended it by stepping down after one term. In July, under pressure from his own party over concerns about his age and fitness for office, he abandoned his re-election bid. Despite low approval ratings in his final months, Biden used his farewell to underscore his administration's accomplishments, such as major conservation efforts, revitalizing U.S. manufacturing, and securing a breakthrough ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. His administration also achieved significant legislative milestones, including investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and reducing prescription drug costs.
"This plan was developed and negotiated by my team, and will be largely implemented by the incoming administration," said Biden, emphasizing his commitment to a seamless transition of power.
"That's why I told my team to keep the incoming administration fully informed, because that's how it should be, working together as Americans," he added.
Reflecting on his life journey from "a kid with a stutter" from Scranton, Pennsylvania, to the highest office in the land, Biden shared these thoughts in a letter released prior to his speech. He warned of the growing power among America's ultra-wealthy, cautioning that an emerging oligarchy threatens the nation's democratic foundations.
"Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedoms, and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead," he warned.
Throughout his address, Biden remained defiant about his decision not to pursue re-election. He told donors that he believed he "could have beaten Trump" but chose to step aside to unify the Democratic party. Nonetheless, his endorsed successor, Kamala Harris, lost to Trump in the November election.
Biden's presidency was marked by efforts to guide the nation through the pandemic's aftermath. His administration implemented measures to ease economic burdens and secured critical legislative wins.
"What I believe is that the America of our dreams is always closer than we think," he stated optimistically, offering hope for the future despite current challenges.