Washington, D.C., August 11, 2024, The Europe Today: In his first television interview since announcing his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election race, U.S. President Joe Biden explained that his decision was driven by a desire to ensure the defeat of his Republican rival, Donald Trump. Speaking to CBS in an interview recorded last week at the White House, Biden acknowledged concerns from fellow Democrats regarding his chances of winning a second term, as well as his age, health, and mental acuity.
Biden, who officially pulled out of the race last month, revealed that pressure from Democratic colleagues in both the House and Senate influenced his decision. “What happened was, a number of my Democratic colleagues in the House and Senate thought that I was going to hurt them… and I was concerned if I stayed in the race, that would be the topic you’d be interviewing me about,” Biden said.
He added that he believed his continued candidacy would have been a distraction, and emphasized that his top priority is to prevent Trump from securing another term in office. Reflecting on his performance during the first TV debate against Trump in late June, Biden admitted it was a failure but insisted that he has “no serious problem” health-wise.
Biden Warns of Danger to U.S. Democracy
During the interview, Biden underscored the importance of safeguarding American democracy, stating that “we must, we must, we must defeat Trump.” He labeled the former president a “genuine danger to American security” and expressed doubt about the likelihood of a peaceful transfer of power should Trump lose the election again. “A critical issue for me still is — not a joke — maintaining this democracy,” Biden said.
Support for Kamala Harris
Biden also pledged his full support for Vice President Kamala Harris, who has now taken his place as the Democratic Party’s nominee for president. “I’m going to do whatever Kamala thinks I can do to help most,” he told CBS, indicating his commitment to backing her campaign.
Harris, who announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate last week, has begun outlining her policy positions, with further details expected in the coming days. Biden expressed confidence in the Harris-Walz ticket, describing Walz as “real, smart,” and someone he has known for several decades. “I think it’s a hell of a team,” Biden remarked.
According to recent polls conducted by the New York Times and Siena College, Harris leads Trump by four points in Pennsylvania and holds a slight edge in two other critical swing states, Wisconsin and Michigan.
Biden’s decision to step aside has marked a significant shift in the 2024 election landscape, with his focus now firmly on supporting Harris and ensuring the continuation of Democratic leadership in the White House.
