Washington, D.C., July 21, 2024 — President Joseph R. Biden Jr. announced today that he will not seek re-election, citing a desire to focus on fulfilling his duties as President for the remainder of his term.
In a statement released this morning, President Biden highlighted the significant progress made by his administration over the past three and a half years. “Today, America has the strongest economy in the world. We’ve made historic investments in rebuilding our Nation, lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, and expanding affordable health care to a record number of Americans,” Biden stated. He also noted achievements such as providing critically needed care to a million veterans exposed to toxic substances, passing the first gun safety law in 30 years, appointing the first African American woman to the Supreme Court, and enacting the most significant climate legislation in history.
Biden attributed these accomplishments to the collective efforts of the American people. “Together, we overcame a once-in-a-century pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We’ve protected and preserved our Democracy and revitalized and strengthened our alliances around the world,” he said.
Expressing deep gratitude, President Biden acknowledged the support he has received throughout his presidency. “It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
Biden also extended his appreciation to Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her an “extraordinary partner in all this work.” He conveyed his heartfelt thanks to the American people for their faith and trust.
“I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America,” President Biden concluded.
President Biden will address the nation later this week to provide more details about his decision.