Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden expressed confidence on Friday that he could have defeated Donald Trump in the recent presidential election had he remained in the race. However, he emphasized that his decision to withdraw was aimed at preserving unity within the Democratic Party.
In July 2024, Biden announced his withdrawal from the presidential race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his replacement. The decision followed concerns about his health, party criticism, and a lackluster debate performance against Trump. Addressing reporters, Biden reaffirmed his belief in Harris’s capabilities, stating, “I thought it was important to unify the party… I was confident she could win.”
Biden, 82, highlighted that stepping aside was a difficult but necessary choice to ensure party cohesion and prevent internal divisions from jeopardizing the election. While Trump secured victory, Biden stood by his decision, stating, “I don’t regret it. I think I would have beaten Trump, and Kamala could have, too.”
Looking ahead, Biden confirmed he will remain engaged in public life after leaving office on January 20. Responding to queries about potential pardons for himself or family members, he dismissed the notion, stating, “I have done nothing wrong.”
Reflecting on his presidency, Biden called it “the greatest honor of my life” and expressed faith in Harris’s potential to run again in four years, leaving the decision to her discretion.