Biden Explains Dropping Out of the Presidential Race

In a revealing first TV interview since withdrawing from the election, Joe Biden disclosed that pressure from Democratic colleagues and a strong determination to defeat Donald Trump influenced his decision. His unexpected exit, prompted by concerns over his age and mental faculties affecting Democrats’ election prospects, came after a lackluster debate performance sparked internal party dissent. Biden, at 81, has been low-key since halting his campaign on July 21.

During the interview, conducted at the White House and aired on Sunday, Biden appeared physically weak yet mentally sharp. He conceded his debate shortcomings but insisted he faced no significant health issues. “A number of my Democratic colleagues…thought that I was going to hurt them in the races,” Biden remarked, highlighting the internal party concerns about his candidacy affecting their electoral chances.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s lack of explicit support was notably detrimental. Biden felt his continued presence in the race would divert attention to intra-party disagreements rather than policy issues. “A critical issue for me is maintaining this democracy,” Biden emphasized, reiterating the paramount importance of defeating Trump.

Proud of his achievements in office, Biden vowed to vigorously support his Vice President, Kamala Harris, who is now leading the Democratic ticket. Since Biden stepped aside, Harris has experienced a surge in support, leaving Trump and the Republicans grappling to keep up. Biden, who originally intended to be a one-term “transition president,” had reluctantly considered a second term but faced reality after the unfolding events.

Harris, meanwhile, has been energizing voters in crucial states, in contrast to Trump’s comparatively subdued campaign trail presence. Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, took to the Sunday shows, engaging in discussions on various topics, including a tense debate on abortion rights with CBS’s Margaret Brennan. Vance insinuated that Harris wielded significant influence in the Biden administration, a point of contention and speculation.

Biden, in his interview, underscored the threat he believes Trump poses to American security and democracy, cautioning against the implications of a Trump victory. Expressing doubts about a peaceful power transition should Trump lose, Biden’s concerns underscore a tense political landscape focusing on democracy’s future.