Biden: It's time for "younger voices"
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President Biden delivers a prime-time address to the nation in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on July 24. Photo: Evan Vucci/AP Photo/Bloomberg via Getty Images
President Biden said from the Oval Office on Wednesday that the "best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation," speaking to the nation for the first time since his abrupt decision to drop out of the 2024 race.
Why it matters: Biden said during his historic speech that the "defense of democracy" is at stake and that is "more important than any title," as he invoked a message of unity.
- He argued that his record as president merited a second term, but "nothing could come in the way of saving our democracy," he said. "That includes personal ambition," he added.
- "There's also a time and place for new voices, fresh voices, yes, younger voices. That time and place is now," Biden said.
The big picture: Biden was joined in the Oval Office by members of his family, including First Lady Jill Biden, his son Hunter Biden and granddaughters, and his top advisers and aides.
- He praised Vice President Kamala Harris, who he endorsed on Sunday after he withdrew from the race, saying that "she's experienced, she's tough, she's capable."
What he's saying: "Whether we keep our republic is now in your hands," Biden said, seeking to remind voters of the stakes of November.
- "The great thing about America is here, kings and dictators do not rule. The people do. History is in your hands," Biden said.
- "The power is in your hands. The idea of America lies in your hands."
- Biden reiterated that he will finish out his term and is "going to keep working" over the next six months to fight for his agenda.
Zoom out: Biden on Sunday announced via a letter posted on X that he was withdrawing from the race.
- His announcement came after intense pressure to step aside following his disastrous debate performance. Biden resisted the calls for weeks, but by last week, the pressure campaign intensified as major Democratic Party leaders joined the calls for him to step aside.
- Biden's announcement to step aside came while he was at his Delaware, residence recovering from COVID-19. He tested negative on Tuesday.
State of play: Biden's announcement upended the 2024 presidential race, with Harris now becoming the heavy favorite to replace him atop the ticket.
- Harris has received the backing from virtually every prominent party member, including Biden, and the majority of delegates.
Zoom in: Biden called into a meeting this week held by Harris at the Wilmington, Del. campaign headquarters, saying that he was "not going anywhere" and would work to get Harris elected.
- "I'm going to be working like hell, both as a sitting president getting legislation passed as well as campaigning," Biden said.
Go deeper: DNC commits to "transparent and orderly process" to determine new nominee
Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.
