Key Moments from Biden’s Interview on “CBS Sunday Morning”

In a recent interview on “CBS Sunday Morning,” President Biden discussed his decision to exit the 2024 presidential race, stating that he did so to safeguard democracy and counter former President Donald Trump. This marks his first substantial conversation since stepping down, where he addressed the implications of his choice and his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris.

On July 21, Biden announced his withdrawal from the race and followed up with an address from the Oval Office. He emphasized that the preservation of democracy outweighed any personal ambitions he might have harbored. A CBS News poll taken shortly before his announcement suggested a tight race between him and Trump, with Trump leading by five points nationally and by three in key battleground states. This competitive scenario, coupled with pressure from Democratic colleagues worried about their re-election prospects, influenced his decision to step aside.

“My Democratic colleagues in the House and Senate thought my candidacy would hinder their chances, and I was concerned it would become a distraction,” Biden explained. He made his decision alongside a small group of trusted advisors, including First Lady Jill Biden, while recuperating from COVID-19 at their Rehoboth Beach home.

Throughout the interview, Biden reflected on a promise he made to his late son, Beau Biden, who passed away from brain cancer in 2015. “I think of him all the time,” Biden stated. He recalled Beau urging him not to disengage from public service and to remain committed to the values they believed in, especially during challenging times. This promise weighed heavily on Biden as he navigated the pressures of the campaign.

When asked about the repercussions of a potential Trump victory, Biden did not shy away from highlighting the seriousness of the situation. “If Trump were to win, it would pose a genuine danger to American security,” he warned. The president likened the current political climate to a pivotal moment in history, where the choices made now could have lasting implications for democracy.

Last week, amidst ongoing discussions about the U.S. Supreme Court’s role in democracy, Biden proposed reforms such as term limits for justices and an enforceable ethics code, criticizing the current state of the court and its potential to undermine the nation’s democratic foundations.

As Biden steps back, he expressed his full support for Kamala Harris’s candidacy, referring to her partnership with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as “a hell of a team.” Biden stated that he plans to actively participate in the campaign trail to bolster their efforts, dismissing concerns about his health or endurance in the campaigning process. “Just watch,” he suggested, reinforcing his commitment to assist in securing a victory for the Democratic ticket.

The conversation also tackled international affairs, notably Biden’s ongoing efforts to broker peace in Gaza amidst escalating tensions. He mentioned that achieving a cease-fire deal with Hamas remains a part of his strategic goals before leaving office, reiterating that he is working diligently every day to prevent further escalation in the region.

Reflecting on his presidency and how he wants to be remembered, Biden highlighted the significant accomplishments during his term, including substantial economic recovery following the pandemic. “I hope I’ve demonstrated that democracy works,” he remarked, pointing towards efforts to unite the nation and fostering economic growth that benefits all layers of society.

Biden candidly recognized the challenges ahead while maintaining optimism about the American people. “I’ve always believed the American people are good and decent,” he stated, emphasizing his vision for America as a place where unity and collaborative progress can prevail over divisiveness.

This interview and Biden’s reflections on his presidency reveal not only his current priorities but also his hopes for the future of the Democratic Party and the nation as a whole.

Source: CBS News