Jessica F. Simmons

In an address from the Oval Office on Wednesday evening, President Joe Biden spoke to the nation for the first time since announcing his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race.

During his statement, Biden reflected on his time in office, the challenges facing the nation, and his commitment to preserving American democracy during his final term. He emphasized that America is at a pivotal “inflection point,” with the upcoming presidential election playing a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future for decades.

“America is going to have to choose between moving forward or backward, between hope and hate, and between unity and division,” Biden said.

In the weeks leading up to his decision to withdraw from the race, Biden said that while he believes his accomplishments, leadership, and vision for America’s future warrant a second term, he prioritizes preserving democracy over personal ambition by stepping down and “passing the torch to a new generation.”

“You know, there is a time and a place for long years of experience in public life,” Biden said, referring to his decades-long political career. “There’s also a time and a place for new voices, fresh voices, yes, younger voices. And that time and place is now.”

On Sunday after Biden ended his reelection bid, he later endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic’ party nominee. In the address he said that his choice was made and thanked Harris for her job as vice president.

“She experienced,” Biden said. “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.”

Within 24 hours of endorsing Harris, her campaign broke records making $81 million in fundraising and donations from Democratic delegates and supporters, as well as, tipping the voter polls in her favor against Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump.

Towards the end of his address, Biden said his focus will stay on lowering costs for families, growing the economy, and defending civil rights for the next six months. He continued his future plans to combat hate, gun violence, and the climate crisis, advocate for Supreme Court reform, and ensure America’s global leadership by strengthening alliances and maintaining peace.