'Pass torch to new generation...best way to save US': Joe Biden explains decision to quit President race
PTC News Desk: Explaining this decision to exit the US Presidential election race, Joe Biden stated that he has decided to pass on the torch to a new generation and that his decision to step down from his campaign is a matter of democracy.
Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office for the first time since announcing his withdrawal from the 2024 election race and endorsing Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party's presidential candidate, saying that this is the best way to unite our country.
"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. 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 and place is now," the US President said.
Oval Office addresses have historically been important occasions for presidents to address the American people during times of national crisis or to make big policy decisions.
Biden, who returned to the White House on Tuesday after testing negative for COVID-19, spoke about his decision to step down from his campaign, framing the 2024 election as a choice "between moving forward and backwards, between hope and hate," and casting his decision as one of democracy.
"My fellow Americans, it has been the privilege of my life to serve this nation for over 50 years. Nowhere else on earth could a kid with a stutter from modest beginnings in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Claymont, Delaware, one day sit behind the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office as president of the United States," he stated.
Biden mentioned exemplary American leaders, such as Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Franklin Roosevelt.
"In this sacred space, I'm surrounded by portraits of extraordinary American presidents. Thomas Jefferson wrote the immortal words that guide this nation. George Washington showed us that presidents are not kings. Abraham Lincoln, who implored us to reject malice, and Franklin Roosevelt, who inspired us to reject fear, I revere this office, but I love my country more," Biden said.
The US President went on to say that the protection of democracy, which is at stake, is more important than any title. "It's been the honour of my life to serve as your president. But in defence of democracy, which is at stake and is more important than any title. I draw strength and I find joy in working for the American people," he said.
"This sacred task of perfecting our union is not about me. It is about you. Your families. Your futures. It is about 'we, the people," he added.
"We are a great nation because we are good people. When you elected me to this office, I promised to always level with you, to tell you the truth. The truth, the sacred cause of this country, is larger than any one of us."
He backed his vice president, who is now taking his place on the ticket, and stated that he has taken his decision and expressed his opinions.
Biden praised the US Vice President as strong and capable, saying, "I would like to thank our great vice president, Kamala Harris. She's experienced. She's tough, and 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."
- With inputs from agencies
