Biden Claims He Would Have Defeated Trump in the 2024 Election

During a recent appearance on “The View,” President Joe Biden expressed contentment with his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, while maintaining confidence that he could have defeated Donald Trump if he had chosen to continue. This interview marked his first public discussion since the Democratic National Convention and a recent presidential debate featuring Vice President Kamala Harris and Trump.

In a roughly 30-minute segment with the show’s co-hosts, Biden addressed the growing concerns among Democrats regarding his age and ability to handle a challenging campaign and possible second term. Reflecting on his choice to step back, he stated, “I am at peace with my decision.” He explained that he initially viewed himself as a transition president when he ran for his current term, but due to unexpected successes in governance, he felt compelled to extend his term longer than anticipated.

Biden took the opportunity to praise Harris, describing her as “tough” and “honorable.” He emphasized their shared optimistic outlook on the future, noting, “And the thing I like about her, and one thing we share in common, is that we have an optimistic view of the future.”

Despite his withdrawal, Biden firmly asserted that he would have bested Trump had he stayed in the race. He said he “never fully believed” claims of an “overwhelming reluctance” from Democrats to support his campaign continuation, pointing out the 40 Democrats who had publicly urged him to step aside. According to Biden, those pressures did not factor into his decision to withdraw.

“I was confident I would beat Trump. He’s a loser,” Biden remarked, exhibiting his belief in his potential to win.

Offering advice to Harris on how to secure victory, Biden advised her to “be herself.” He highlighted her record, discussing her experience as a prosecutor and U.S. senator, as well as her role in his administration. Biden indicated that there wasn’t a single task he undertook as vice president that Harris could not have accomplished, demonstrating his trust in her capabilities.

“I just think she is — she has the energy, she has the intelligence, she has the grit, she has the stamina, and she has the guts to do the right thing,” he added, showcasing his confidence in her potential leadership.

The conversation also focused on Biden’s extensive career in government. The hosts paid tribute to his pivotal role in passing the Violence Against Women Act and his efforts in assembling a cabinet that reflects diversity, including the nomination of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

However, the discussion wasn’t limited to accomplishments. It also delved into contentious topics such as Trump’s divisive rhetoric and the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. When asked about Trump’s tendency to blame Biden and the Democratic Party for heightened tensions, Biden described Trump as “the most unusual president” and noted that his motivation for running in 2020 was to restore the “soul of the nation.”

“Trump is — there’s no social redeeming value there,” Biden remarked, highlighting his view that Trump “does not believe in democracy” and miscomprehends the importance of global alliances.

On the issue of Israel and Gaza, Biden acknowledged his support for Israel but clarified that he did not align with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stance. He emphasized the necessity for a cease-fire and a two-state solution as critical to addressing the ongoing conflict.

In light of increasing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the escalation of fighting between Israel and Lebanon, Biden warned that “an all-out war is possible.” Nevertheless, he expressed hope, asserting that opportunities for a settlement remain on the table that could transform the entire region.

Through this appearance, Biden’s reflections on his political journey and current challenges paint a portrait of a leader still deeply engaged in the pressing issues facing the nation and the world.

Source: ABC News