President Biden describes the presidential election in November as an election of destiny for the American people. – My vision for America is that nothing should stand in the way of democracy, that means more than being president. I have therefore decided that it is best to pass the baton on to a new generation. It is the best way to purify the nation, said US President Joe Biden. Biden spoke to the people from the Oval Office in the White House at 2:00 a.m. Thursday Norwegian time. The speech lasted 13 minutes, shorter than many had expected in advance. In the room were his wife Jill, son Hunter, daughter Ashely and granddaughter Finnegan, although they were not shown in the televised images broadcast. – The time has come On Sunday, Joe Biden (81) announced that he is withdrawing as the Democrats’ presidential candidate. The decision came after strong pressure from the leadership and other leading politicians in the Democratic Party. They feared that an elderly and frail Biden would not be able to win over Trump, as he did in 2020. The concern turned to panic after the two campaigners met for a debate at the end of June, and it became clear to everyone that Biden is now far from the slugger he has been in American politics for 50 years. – In the last few weeks it became clear to me that I had to unite my party. I believe that my achievements as president, my leadership as a world leader, my vision for America’s future warrant another term as president. – But nothing – nothing – is more important than saving our democracy. It is a time for experience. But it is also a time to let in new, fresh and younger voices. That time is now, he said. US correspondent Tove Bjørgaa’s victory Biden appeared tired. Experienced, tough and competent Biden has given his support to Vice President Kamala Harris as the new presidential candidate for the Democrats. In a few days, Harris has won enough delegates to become the Democratic presidential candidate. – She is experienced, tough and competent. She has been a very good colleague for me, and a leader for our country. Now it’s up to you. The American people, he said. Biden and Harris argue to voters that the upcoming election is between freedom and chaos. – It’s not about me, but about you, your family, your future. It’s about us and our people, Biden said. The president says people must choose between hope or hate, future or past. – We have to decide; we still believe in honesty, decency and respect. Freedom, justice and democracy, said the president and added: – What is good about the United States is that dictators and kings do not rule here, but the people, said the president with a jab at Donald Trump, who he did not mention during the 13 minutes by name. President Joe Biden after the speech from the Oval Office. Photo: Evan Vucci / Reuters Biden has about half a year left in the White House, before Donald Trump or Kamala Harris move in. – I will continue to defend our rights, from the right to vote and the right to choose, Biden said about the coming months. American commentators assume that Biden – who has been considered one of the country’s best politicians to get laws, reforms and budget packages through Congress – now that he does not have to take into account re-election, will put in a final sprint to secure his political legacy. In the speech, the president said he will continue to improve the American economy, fight for support for Ukraine and to stop the war in Gaza. He also spoke about the climate crisis and protecting young people from gun violence. President Joe Biden hugs his daughter Ashely Biden after the speech. Also present were his wife Jill Biden (behind the TV), son Hunter Biden (with his back) and grandson Finnegan Biden. Photo: Evan Vucci / AP One minute’s notice Few knew that Biden had decided to withdraw his candidacy. Several close supporters and party colleagues found out about it just one minute before he posted a statement on his X account. Although there were signs that Biden was going to give in to the increasing pressure, the message still came as a surprise to many. By Saturday morning at the latest, Biden told close supporters that it was still “full speed ahead” for the campaign, writes Politico. On Sunday morning, the counter notification came. In the case below, you can read about what happened behind the scenes in the days and hours before Biden resigned: Kamala takes over In a historic two short days, Kamala Harris has received the support of enough delegates to become the Democrats’ new presidential candidate. Polls have shown both that Trump is more popular than Harris, and that Harris is more popular than Trump. At a rally in Wisconsin Tuesday night, Harris was clear when she referred to her competitor: Kamala Harris spoke at a rally in Wisconsin Tuesday night. – We have a lot to do. But we are not afraid of hard work. We will win this election, she said from the podium. The speech was her first since Biden pointed to Harris as his successor. The US presidential election takes place on November 5 this year. Published 24/07/2024, at 21.38 Updated 25.07.2024, at 09.59
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Joe Biden spoke for the first time after he withdrew as a presidential candidate – news Urix – Foreign news and documentaries
