Former President Barack Obama has released a statement commending President Joe Biden's decision to drop out of the 2024 race. Obama praised Biden's record as president and highlighted the stakes involved if Republicans regain control.
Former President Barack Obama has lauded President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, citing his friend's "deep empathy" and "fundamental decency." In a statement released Sunday afternoon, Obama praised Biden's character and accomplishments, emphasizing his role in mitigating the pandemic, creating jobs, and advancing gun safety and climate change initiatives.
"Sixteen years ago, when I began my search for a vice president, I knew about Joe's remarkable career in public service," Obama wrote. "But what I came to admire even more was his character—his deep empathy and hard-earned resilience; his fundamental decency and belief that everyone counts."
Obama Praises Biden's Exit from 2024 Race, Warns of Trump's Return
Obama acknowledged Biden's track record in the 3½ years he has served as commander-in-chief, emphasizing his efforts to address the pandemic, the economy, prescription drug costs, gun control, climate change, and workers' rights.
"Joe has never backed down from a fight," Obama asserted. "For him to look at the political landscape and decide that he should pass the torch to a new nominee is surely one of the toughest decisions in his life."
Obama Praises Biden's Exit from 2024 Race, Warns of Trump's Return
While refraining from endorsing a specific candidate to succeed Biden, Obama stressed the importance of maintaining Democratic control to safeguard the party's values. He warned against the potential consequences of a Republican victory in the next presidential election.
"Everything that the Democratic Party stands for will be at risk if we allow Donald Trump back in the White House and give Republicans control of Congress," Obama warned.
Obama Praises Biden's Exit from 2024 Race, Warns of Trump's Return
Obama expressed confidence in the Democratic Party's ability to find a worthy nominee to carry the torch. He pointed to the Democratic National Convention in August as the platform for showcasing the party's vision.
"I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges," Obama stated.
The former president concluded his statement with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to Biden and his wife, Jill, for their leadership during "perilous times."
"For now, Michelle and I just want to express our love and gratitude to Joe and Jill for leading us so ably and courageously during these perilous times—and for their commitment to the ideals of freedom and equality that this country was founded on," Obama wrote.
Biden's withdrawal from the race leaves a void in the Democratic field, with no clear frontrunner emerging yet. Vice President Kamala Harris has been mentioned as a potential successor, having received endorsements from Biden, former President Bill Clinton, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. However, the nomination process is still in its early stages, and other candidates may emerge in the coming months.
