President Joe Biden is addressing the nation. Three days after announcing he was dropping out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsing current Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic party nominee, the 46th president gave a speech from the White House about his decision. (Former President Donald Trump remains the Republican party nominee.
) "I revere this office, but I love my county more. It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president," the 81-year-old—who was isolating at home in Delaware after testing positive for COVID—said during his July 24 speech. "But in the defense of democracy, which is at stake, I think it’s more important than any title.
" "In recent weeks, it’s become clear to me that I need to unite my party in this critical endeavor," he continued, noting that he put aside "personal ambition" to "pass the torch to a new generation." "There is a time and place for long years of experience in public life. But there is also a time and place for new voices, fresh voices, and yes, younger voices," Biden said.
"And that time and place is now." He then thanked Harris for serving as his Vice President, adding, "She’s tough, she’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country.
" On July 21, Biden announced in a letter posted to his social media accounts that he was officially pulling out of the election. "It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President," he wrote in the statement. "And.