(NewsNation) — Saying that defending democracy is more important than any title, President Joe Biden told the nation the “sacred task of perfecting our union” is not about just him.
“Nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition. So I decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. That is the best way to unite our nation,” Biden said in remarks released ahead of his Oval Office speech Wednesday night.
Rejecting calls to resign the presidency in addition to ending his reelection bid, Biden said he’ll spend his last six months in office focusing on the job of president and continue to push the policies he’s implemented.
“That means I will continue to lower costs for hard-working families and grow our economy. I will keep defending our personal freedoms and our civil rights — from the right to vote to the right to choose,” he said.
“I’ve given my heart and my soul to our nation, like so many others. I hope you have some idea how grateful I am. The great thing about America is that, here, kings and dictators do not rule. The people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hands.”
Biden briefly mentioned Kamala Harris, the vice president who has already amassed enough Democratic Party delegates to ensure her nomination.
“She’s experienced. She’s tough. She’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country.”
After the speech, First Lady Jill Biden wrote a quick tribute to her husband, which she posted on her X account.
“To those who never wavered, to those who refused to doubt, to those who always believed, my heart is full of gratitude,” it read. “Thank you for the trust you put in Joe — now it’s time to put that trust in Kamala. Love, Jill.”
On his X account, former President Barack Obama said “The sacred cause of this country is larger than any one of us. Joe Biden has stayed true to these words again and again over a lifetime of service to the American people. Thank you, @POTUS,” Obama wrote, using the acronym for President of the United States.
Questions about Biden’s fitness
Following three weeks of calls for him to leave the presidential race, Biden surprised even his closest advisers with Sunday morning’s announcement of his withdrawal.
Fears about Biden’s ability to win in November began to surface shortly after the first presidential debate, when Democrats were alarmed by his soft-spoken, sometimes confused answers.
The White House blamed a cold and recent overseas travel for Biden’s performance and attempted to shore up support with a series of interviews and events.
However, Biden’s appearances were marred by verbal gaffes and increased scrutiny of his appearance. Biden’s campaign took another hit last week when the president tested positive for COVID, forcing a cancellation of campaign events as he isolated in Delaware.
Following Biden’s decision to exit the race, some in the GOP have also spoken up, suggesting that if Biden is unable to run for reelection, he is currently unable to serve as the president.
The White House has maintained Biden is in good health and has not been diagnosed with any cognitive or neurological issues. Biden’s allies have also dismissed the calls, saying that the president is able and committed to serving out the rest of his term.
Following treatment with Paxlovid and a negative COVID-19 test, Biden is resuming in-person duties, including a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday.