President Joe Biden addressed the nation on Wednesday for the first time since his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race.

Delivering remarks from the Oval Office, Biden said that his decision to step aside from the 2024 presidential race was a matter of saving democracy. Said Biden: “I revere this office. But I love my country more .. It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president. But the defense of democracy is more important than any title. I draw strength, and find joy, in working FOR the American people. This sacred task of perfecting our Union is not about me. It’s about you. Your families. Your futures. It’s about ‘We the People.’ The great thing about America is here, kings and dictators do not rule. The people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hands. The idea of America – lies in your hands.”

Biden withdrew from the president race on Sunday, after a month of intense pressure from Democrats to change course after his poor debate performance, which raised conerns about his age and whether he could successfully defeat former President Donald Trump in November. Biden said on Wednesday: “Over the next six months I will be focused on doing my job as President. 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.”

In the rare Oval Office address, Mr. Biden also reiterated his endorsement for Vice President Kamala Harris to secure the Democratic nomination. Said Biden: “In just a few months, the American people will choose the course of America’s future. I made my choice. I’ve made my views known. I would like to thank our great vice president, Kamala Harris. 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.”

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