In his first major interview since stepping aside from the 2024 presidential race, President Joe Biden appeared on ABC’s The View on Wednesday, expressing confidence that he would have won re-election had he stayed in the race. Biden, who announced earlier this year that he would not seek a second term, told the hosts that he believed he could have defeated former President Donald Trump once again in a head-to-head contest.
“I was confident I would beat Trump,” Biden said during the interview. “He’s a loser.” Despite stepping down from the campaign trail, Biden assured viewers that he is “at peace” with his decision to end his bid for another four years in the White House. The president’s remarks come on the heels of the Democratic National Convention and the widely watched debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Trump, which took place last week.
A Peaceful Decision, Despite Reluctance Rumors
Biden’s decision to step aside has sparked speculation and debate within the Democratic Party, with many wondering whether his choice was influenced by concerns about his age or declining poll numbers. However, Biden dismissed claims that there was widespread reluctance within the party about him running for re-election, telling the hosts of The View that he “never fully believed” those assertions.
“I understand the concerns people have raised, but in my heart, I knew I could do the job and beat Trump again,” Biden said. “But there comes a time when you have to think about what’s best for the country, for your family, and for yourself. I’m at peace with my decision.”
Biden’s appearance on The View marked his first major media engagement since announcing he would not pursue another term in office, signaling a shift in focus as the race for the Democratic nomination intensifies. The president remains a key figure within the party and has expressed his support for Vice President Kamala Harris, who is running as the Democratic candidate against Trump in 2024.
Reflecting on the Political Landscape
During the interview, Biden reflected on the evolving political landscape and the challenges facing the country. He spoke about his administration’s accomplishments, including navigating the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic and overseeing economic recovery efforts. Biden also addressed the importance of safeguarding democracy and fighting extremism, themes that have shaped much of his presidency.
“I’ve spent my entire career fighting for the soul of this country, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. But we’re not done yet. There’s a lot more work to be done, and I’m confident Kamala is the right person to lead us forward,” Biden said.
When asked if he felt his hand was forced in the decision to withdraw, Biden pushed back, emphasizing that the choice was ultimately his. “No one forced me to do anything,” he said. “I thought long and hard about it. I want what’s best for this country, and right now, I believe stepping aside is the best decision for the future.”
A Transition in Focus
As Biden steps away from the political spotlight as a candidate, his focus is expected to shift to supporting his party’s efforts in the upcoming election and continuing his presidential duties. His endorsement of Vice President Harris, who has gained momentum within the party, is seen as critical to unifying the Democratic base ahead of the 2024 election.
Political analysts are watching closely to see how Biden’s departure from the race affects voter turnout and enthusiasm, particularly among moderates and swing voters who played a crucial role in his 2020 victory. However, Biden’s continued presence on the political stage, even if not as a candidate, remains influential.
“I’m not going anywhere,” Biden reassured the audience. “I’ll be right there, fighting for the values we all share and making sure we protect this democracy.”
