President Joe Biden announced his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race while self-isolating in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, after a COVID-19 diagnosis on July 17.

In his first public address since the announcement, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s presumptive nominee, while also underscoring his push for drastic Supreme Court reform in a something of an emergency effort to shore up support from his party's left flank, as Fox News reports.

Biden’s announcement on Sunday came amid escalating pressure from his allies following a lackluster debate performance against former President Donald Trump.

By Wednesday, the president had made his first in-person address, speaking from the Oval Office's Resolute Desk and detailing his plans for the rest of his term.

A Presidential Farewell from Oval Office

During his 11-minute speech, Biden reflected on his long career in politics and emphasized his commitment to democracy’s preservation. To his side stood family members, including first lady Jill Biden, daughter Ashley Biden, and son Hunter Biden, all of whom were reportedly visibly emotional and supportive.

Biden expressed his belief in the need to step aside to enable new voices to take the lead.

“I decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. It’s the best way to unite our nation,” he remarked. Biden continued, “There is a time and a place for long years of experience in public life. There’s also a time and place for new voices, fresh voices, yes, younger voices. And that time and place is now.”

With six months left in his term, Biden pledged to focus on Supreme Court reforms crucial for democracy. “I’m going to call for Supreme Court reform because this is critical to our democracy,” he stated.

Calls For Biden’s Resignation Amid His Final Months in Office

Biden’s departure from the race followed a widely critiqued debate performance, which spurred requests from several members of Congress for him to "pass the torch." By Tuesday, Harris had secured the necessary delegates for her nomination, set to be certified by the Democratic National Committee next month.

However, Biden’s decision has also attracted criticism. Conservative lawmakers, notably House Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep. Andy Ogles, have demanded Biden’s immediate resignation, questioning his capability to finish his term. They called for Harris to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove Biden from office.

Johnson stated, "If Joe Biden is not fit to run for President, he is not fit to serve as President. He must resign the office immediately. November 5 cannot arrive soon enough." Ogles shared similar sentiments, emphasizing Biden's declining health as an untenable factor in his presidency's continuation.

Supporting Democracy and Acknowledging a Partner

Throughout his speech, Biden quoted historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Franklin Roosevelt, underscoring the importance of democratic values. He articulated a deep respect for the presidency while stressing his dedication to the nation’s wellbeing. “I revere this office, but I love my country more,” Biden said.

Biden thanked Harris for her partnership and leadership, describing her as experienced, tough, and capable. He concluded by addressing the American people directly, “Now the choice is up to you, the American people.”

In response, former President Trump criticized Biden’s address on Truth Social, labelling it “barely understandable, and sooo bad!” This came on the heels of an assassination attempt on Trump’s life in Pennsylvania and the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, which confirmed Trump as the GOP nominee.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

Biden’s announcement was met with an outpouring of gratitude from dozens of members of Congress, who commended his service and embraced his endorsement of Harris. The transition period has begun, with Harris poised to become the Democratic Party’s standard-bearer in the upcoming election.

As Biden plans his remaining time in office, many eyes will be on his efforts to advocate for Supreme Court changes and navigate political challenges during his final months.

The president’s decision exemplifies a significant shift in the Democratic Party, potentially redefining its future leadership dynamics.

The closing moments of Biden’s address resonated with what supporters called a tone of humility and duty. “It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president, but in the defense of democracy, which is at stake, I think is more important than any title,” he proclaimed. “I draw strength and I find joy in working for the American people. But this sacred task of perfecting our union, it’s not about me. It’s about you.”

In conclusion, Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race marks a pivotal moment for American politics, setting the stage for new leadership under Kamala Harris.