Janice R. Andrews
In a shocking interview that aired on Sunday, President Joe Biden spoke with Robert Costa of CBS News for the first time in public after declaring his intention to drop out of the 2024 presidential contest. In the White House interview, Biden discussed his thoughts on his presidency, the reasons for his sudden decision, and his serious worries about what would happen to American democracy if Donald Trump were to win a second term.
The Choice to Resign
Political analysts were taken aback when Biden declared on July 21 that he would not run for reelection, paving the way for a significant change in the 2024 presidential contest. Biden gave further context for his decision throughout the interview, outlining his political and personal motivations for resigning.
“The polls we had showed that it was a neck-and-neck race, would have been down to the wire,” Biden stated. However, a lot of my Democratic colleagues in the Senate and House believed that I would harm them in the next elections. And I was worried it would be the subject if I continued in the campaign. Interview questions might include “Why did Nancy Pelosi say…” and “Why did so-and-so…” And I believed it would be a significant diversion.”
Recognizing the difficulties brought about by his advanced age, Biden said that he had first envisioned himself as a “transition president,” someone who would lead the nation through a momentous era of change. He did, however, observe that the quick-paced nature of his presidency made him reevaluate his suitability for a second term.
A Caution Regarding Trump
The interview’s most stunning part was when Biden gave a stark warning about the possible repercussions of a Trump triumph in 2024. In light of the statements and deeds of Trump throughout his first term, Biden called the outgoing leader a “genuine danger to American security.”
“He’s not kidding,” Biden said. “Everything that says, ‘If we lose, there’ll be carnage. It must be an election that has been stolen. We face a real threat to American security if he prevails.”
The seriousness of the impending election and Biden’s profound worries for the survival of American democracy are highlighted by his comments. If Trump loses to Vice President Kamala Harris—whom Biden has backed as the Democratic nominee—the president stated that he does not believe there would be a peaceful handover of power.
Biden Regarding His Legacy and Health
Despite a highly criticized debate performance in June, Biden addressed questions about his health and refuted the idea that he is unable to serve. “All I can do is observe,” stated Biden. “Look, I was sick throughout that debate, so I had a very, really horrible day. But I don’t have any pressing issues.”
Throughout his administration, Biden’s health has been under constant investigation, raising concerns about his capacity to fulfill the responsibilities of the position. Nonetheless, Biden emphasized that his decision to resign was motivated by a desire to concentrate on the tasks he could do during his remaining time in office and that his health is not a major concern.
Speaking about his legacy, Biden took satisfaction in the achievements of his government, especially the way it handled the COVID-19 outbreak and the ensuing economic recovery. “We survived a pandemic thanks to democracy,” Biden remarked. The greatest economic rebound in American history was the result of it. Our economy is the strongest in the entire globe. There is still work for us to do. And it proved that we are capable of uniting the country.”
In addition, Biden highlighted his dedication to reviving the “soul of America” and creating an inclusive economy that benefits all citizens, not just the affluent. Although he conceded that the public has yet to fully understand many of his administration’s accomplishments, he expressed optimism that history will view his presidency favorably.
Harris and Walz: “A Very Special Pair”
Regarding the 2024 race, Vice President Kamala Harris and her recently declared running companion, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, have Biden’s unwavering support. Calling them “one hell of a team,” Biden also called Walz a “great guy” and a friend of his for many years.
Regarding Walz, Biden remarked, “As we say, if we grew up in the same neighborhood we would have been friends.” “He is genuine. He is intelligent. He and I have been friends for many years. It’s a terrific squad, in my opinion.”
Additionally, Biden disclosed that he intends to aggressively support Harris, enlisting the help of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro to prepare a campaign tour through crucial battleground states like Pennsylvania. “I’ll also be conducting campaign rallies in other states,” Biden stated. “I’m going to be doing whatever Kamala thinks I can do to help most.”
The War Between Israel and Hamas
Apart from talking about internal matters, Biden also mentioned the continuing war between Israel and Hamas, voicing optimism for a truce. Biden mentioned a three-pronged approach he put forward back in June, which he thinks still has the potential to bring about peace.
“The plan I put together, endorsed by the G7, endorsed by the U.N. Security Council, etcetera, is still viable,” Biden stated to Costa. “I’m working literally every single day, and my whole team, to see to it that it doesn’t escalate into a regional war — but it easily can.”
According to Biden’s plan, there will be a six-week truce, a full Israeli military departure from Gaza in exchange for the release of all hostages still held there, and a significant reconstruction project in Gaza. Even though things are still tense, Biden stated that he is determined to stop things from becoming worse and find a way to bring about peace.
As his term in office draws to an end, Biden is obviously focused on leaving a lasting legacy and making sure Kamala Harris, his successor, gets the resources she needs to carry on his work. In an interview with CBS News, he revealed his thoughts as he gets ready to step down from the political scene, expressing both confidence in his administration’s successes and worries about the future.
Given the amount of uncertainty surrounding the already turbulent political environment, it appears that the 2024 election will be among the most significant in American history due to Biden’s choice to stand down. Biden’s cautions about Trump and his support for Harris will probably be crucial in determining the campaign’s narrative and swaying voters as the contest progresses.
