ARTICLE AD
President Joe Biden of the United States has explained his decision to withdraw from the November 5 election.
Biden, 81, who served as Vice President under Barack Obama, announced his withdrawal to prioritize saving US democracy.
Biden, who defeated Donald Trump in the 2020 election, made history as the oldest person elected to the Oval Office. However, his presidency has faced controversies, particularly regarding his health and fitness. The issue peaked after a recent presidential debate where Trump outperformed him.
Despite resisting pressure to quit, Biden announced his decision on Sunday via a post on his X handle. He stated he would remain President until his term ends in January 2025. In a televised address, Biden said he stepped down to pass the torch to a new generation, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to unite Democrats and the nation.
“I revere this office, but I love my country more. The best way to unite our nation is to pass the torch,” Biden said, emphasizing the importance of saving democracy over personal ambition.
Biden is the first sitting President not to seek re-election since Lyndon Johnson in 1968. Meanwhile, Donald Trump launched attacks on Harris, calling her a “radical left lunatic” at his first rally since her nomination. Opinion polls show a tight race between Trump and Harris in a potential match-up.