Highlights from Biden’s First TV Interview After Exiting 2024 Race

President Biden, in his first interview since quitting the 2024 presidential race, shared insights into his decision to step back from seeking a second term. Speaking to CBS Sunday Morning, he emphasized that his choice was driven by a commitment to democracy and the need to defeat former President Donald Trump.

Biden had announced his decision to exit the race on July 21, stating that prioritizing the preservation of democracy outweighed any personal ambitions he might have. In subsequent remarks, he discussed the highly competitive nature of the race, especially against Trump, describing it as “neck and neck”. A CBS News poll released just before his announcement indicated Trump leading by 5 points nationally and having significant advantages in crucial battleground states.

Faced with mounting pressure from fellow Democrats fearing his candidacy could jeopardize their reelection campaigns, Biden concluded that his continued presence in the race would lead to distractions rather than progress. During a reflective moment at his vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and while recovering from COVID-19, he made the decision with a small circle of trusted advisors, including First Lady Jill Biden.

Biden also revealed that the promise he made to his late son, Beau Biden, was a guiding force in his choices. Beau, who passed away from brain cancer in 2015, had urged his father to stay engaged in public service even in difficult times. “Whenever I have a decision that’s really hard to make, I literally ask myself, ‘What would Beau do?'” Biden recalled, acknowledging how often he reflects on the values Beau embodied.

Initially not planning to run for president after the tumultuous events of 2016, including the violent protests in Charlottesville, Biden decided to enter the race in response to what he perceived as a dire need for unity and leadership. Now at the age of 81, he described his time in office as a transitional phase post-Trump, emphasizing that his departure from the race was a measure to uphold democratic processes.

He expressed the importance of preventing Trump’s return to power, stating it would pose a serious threat to American security. He described the upcoming election as pivotal, reiterating the necessity to “defeat Trump” for the sake of democracy and the core values that define America. “Democracy is key,” he asserted.

In addition to his campaign reflections, Biden discussed his proposals to reform the U.S. Supreme Court. He advocated for term limits and a stricter ethics code, highlighting the need for accountability in America’s highest court. Critiques of the current court’s alignment with partisan politics were apparent as he pushed for reforms that would restore democratic integrity.

Vice President Kamala Harris, Biden’s endorsed successor for the 2024 race, recently selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. There’s a collaborative spirit within the campaign, with Biden affirming his support: “I talk to [Harris] frequently. I think it’s a hell of a team,” he remarked, emphasizing his belief in their capability to rally support from voters.

On the campaign trail, Biden plans to join Harris and Walz, focusing on winning key states like Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground where he intends to marshal resources to help secure electoral votes. His commitment to engaging in the campaign is underscored by his determination to support the Democratic ticket moving forward.

On international issues, Biden expressed hope for a cease-fire in Gaza, reinforcing that a solution remained “still possible” before his term ends. He underscored his administration’s diplomatic efforts to negotiate peace and mitigate risks of a broader conflict in the region. Working closely with allies, he believes narrowing the gaps to finalize a deal is critical and achievable.

Reflecting on his presidency, Biden articulated a vision for his legacy, hoping to demonstrate that democracy can indeed prevail. He highlighted achievements such as leading the country out of the pandemic and fostering significant economic recovery. Conclusively, Biden wants to be remembered for uniting Americans and proving that progress is attainable in challenging times.

As President Biden transitions from the election campaign narrative, he remains focused on what comes next for him and the country, ensuring that the values he cherishes are carried forward in the political arena.

Source: CBS News