Washington: US President Joe Biden said he is "passing the torch to a new generation" to unite the country in his first address to the nation after quitting the 2024 presidential race. The octogenarian said there is a time and place for younger voices, as he explained his move to end the re-election bid and called upon voters to defend the country's democracy.
"I have decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. That is the best way to unite our nation... I revere this office, but I love my country more. It's been the honor of my life to serve as your President. But in the defence of democracy, which is at stake, it's more important than any title," Biden said in a televised address.
Biden bowed out of the race, giving in to weeks of pressure from his own party after a disastrous debate performance against Republican rival Donald Trump raised concerns about his age.
In his Oval Office address, Joe Biden called Vice-President Kamala Harris "tough" and "capable" of facing Donald Trump in the November 5 election. "She's experienced, she's tough, she's capable. She's been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country. Now the choice is up to you, the American people," he said.
Trump slams Oval Office speechRepublican presidential candidate Donald Trump ripped into US President Joe Biden’s Oval Office address, describing it as “so bad” and “barely understandable” on his Truth Social. “Crooked Joe Biden’s Oval Office speech was barely understandable, and sooo bad,” Trump said. “Crooked Joe Biden and lyin’ Kamala Harris are a great embarrassment to America — there has never been a time like this,” he said in another scathing post. |
