Biden Withdraws from Reelection Bid in Surprise Social Media Announcement
After weeks of battling for his political survival and denying any plans to step down following a poor debate performance, Biden's announcement marked a historic moment in American politics.
Never before has a president dropped out of a reelection race so close to Election Day. For 24 days, Biden appeared determined to weather the storm that ensued after the June 27 CNN debate in Atlanta, repeatedly stating his intent to stay in the race against former President Donald Trump. However, mounting pressure from party leaders, lawmakers, donors, and dismal polling results ultimately led him to reconsider.
Biden spent the three weeks post-debate asserting his ability to defeat Trump, but his inner circle dwindled to his closest aides and family. Retreating to Delaware, Biden reached his decision within the last 48 hours, acknowledging that his candidacy was becoming a liability for the Democratic Party.
On Sunday, Biden posted his decision on social media, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris in hopes of unifying the party ahead of the election, now just 107 days away. This last-minute change comes as Trump emerges from a unified Republican National Convention with strong support following an attempt on his life.
Senior campaign advisers revealed that Biden’s choice to leave the race was finalized after consulting with family and top aides. Despite his insistence on staying, he ultimately recognized that continuing would hinder the party’s chances of defeating Trump. The decision, not prompted by medical issues, was solidified after a meeting with advisers who presented polling data showing a bleak path to victory.
Biden’s announcement, crafted with the help of his aides, came as a surprise to many, including key staff members and Vice President Harris, who were informed shortly before the public. Biden’s departure from the race sets a high-stakes stage for the Democratic Party, as they rally behind Harris to secure a win against Trump in the upcoming election.