President Joe Biden announced he is not running for reelection in a letter shared on his official X account. He mentioned he will address the nation in more detail later this week.
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President,” Biden stated. “Although I intended to seek reelection, I believe stepping down is in the best interest of my party and the country. I will focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
This decision follows weeks of growing concerns about the 81-year-old president’s stamina and mental capabilities. Doubts about his ability to campaign effectively against Trump and govern for another four years had been increasing. Biden’s decision is also likely to prompt questions regarding his ability to fulfill his presidential duties for the rest of his term.
Biden’s withdrawal marks the first time in decades that a sitting US president has opted out of a reelection bid, reminiscent of President Lyndon Johnson’s choice not to seek a second full term in 1968, though Biden’s announcement comes much later in the campaign. This unexpected move adds to the already tense political atmosphere, which included an attempt on Trump’s life.
Despite the assassination attempt and its chaotic impact on the race, Biden’s support among congressional Democrats continued to dwindle. Many feared a substantial defeat in November would also harm their down-ballot contests.
This announcement concludes a political career spanning half a century, beginning with Biden as one of the youngest senators in US history and culminating as the oldest president.
