Biden speech live: President explains decision to drop out of race as ‘defense of democracy’

More than just a chance to send the Harris campaign off with well wishes, Biden’s speech today was a mini-farewell address, which found the president reflecting on his more than five decades in national politics.

“I have given my heart and soul to our nation,” Biden told viewers, adding, “I hope you have some idea how grateful I am to all of you.”

He spoke of his career in both personal and political terms, describing his rise as a kid of modest means from Pennsylvania to the height of the most powerful office on Earth.

“No where else could a kid with a stutter…one day sit behind the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office of the White House,” Biden said.

He also used the speech to rally around one of his favorite themes, that Americans can accomplish anything if they stay united in common purpose.

The great thing about America is here kings and dictators do not rule,” he added. “The people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hands. The idea of America lies in your hands. You just have to keep the faith and remember who we are.”

Read this in-depth profile from Richard Hall looking at the long career of Joe Biden.

During his White House speech on Wednesday, Joe Biden touched on the debate that roiled the Democratic party in recent weeks and in large part caused him to drop out of the 2024 presidential race: that he’s too old to run.

The president maintained that he had the qualities and record to run again, but acknowledged, “There’s also a time and a place for new faces, fresh voices, and yes, younger voices.”

“That time and place is now,” he continued.

Last year, we reported on how age debates were playing out across all of Washington, not just the Democratic party.

During his closely watched Oval Office address on Wednesday, Joe Biden offered strong praise for the presumptive Democratic nominee, Kamala Harris, whom he has endorsed.

“I’d like to thank our great vice president Kamala Harris,” he said from behind the Resolute Desk. “She’s experienced. She’s tough. She’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me, and a leader for our country.”

Here’s Eric Garcia on how Biden can help the Harris campaign going forward.

“I have decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation,” Biden said Wednesday in his first official address to the nation since announcing his campaign withdrawal. “That is the best way to unite our nation.”

Follow Ariana Baio and Andrew Feinberg’s coverage live.

Joe Biden spoke somberly on Wednesday about his decision to drop out of the 2024 race, describing it as a way to unify the Democratic party and protect democracy.

“In recent weeks, it’s become clear to me that I need to unite my party in this critical endeavor,” he said.

“Nothing, nothing, can come in the way of saving our democracy,” he continued. “That includes personal ambition.”

The president is expected to begin speaking any moment.

Watch his highly anticipated speech for free via the White House website here.

Joe Biden is expected to share his thoughts on patriotism and the upcoming election in an impending Oval Office speech this evening, his first major address since dropping out of the presidential race.

“The defense of democracy is more important than any title,” he’s expected to say, according to draft remarks given to news outlets. “I draw strength, and find joy, in working for the American people. But this sacred task of perfecting our Union is not about me. It’s about you. Your families. Your futures. It’s about ‘We the People.’”

Biden often avoids mentioning Trump by name, but the preview speech seems to hint at the former president and his fondness for strongmen.

“The great thing about America is here, kings and dictators do not rule,” Biden is expected to say. “The people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hands. The idea of America – lies in your hands.”

Former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan — an anti-Trump Republican — has endorsed Democrat Kamala Harris for President.

Speaking to the press today, he said: “This November, I am voting for a decent person I disagree with on policy over a convicted felon without a moral compass.”

In deciding to hand off the baton to Harris, Biden might have a chance to create a better on-ramp for his erstwhile running mate: clear the deck by doing all of the unpopular and unpleasant work to allow Harris to not have to face those difficult questions on the campaign trail.