This pivotal moment marked a significant transition in Biden’s career, steering him away from the campaign trail and into a period of introspection and planning for his post-presidential life.

Biden's Withdrawal Shifts Political Dynamics

Biden’s recent gaffe in which he called Donald Trump's supporters "garbage," led to a distancing from the Harris campaign and set the tone for the president's reduced visibility in political affairs.

This incident was one of the key factors that reinforced his decision to step back, as urged by the Harris campaign.

"Stay away," was the clear directive from the Harris team toward the end of its ill-fated campaign, highlighting a strategic move to redefine a path forward without Biden’s active involvement.

This decision was emblematic of a broader strategy to shift away from Biden's policies and approach, aiming to appeal to a broader electorate with a fresh perspective.

Jill Biden Continues to Support Harris's Campaign

While Biden often remained in Wilmington, Delaware, focusing on his legacy and future projects, his wife, Jill Biden, took an active role in supporting Harris. She traveled across Pennsylvania and four other key states, balancing her campaign duties with her commitment to teaching English two days a week.

Jill Biden’s efforts underscored the familial support for Harris’s candidacy, despite Joe Biden’s physical absence from the campaign trail. She described the situation as "tough" for Biden, acknowledging the emotional and professional challenges posed by this transitional phase.

Planning the Future Beyond the White House

As the Harris campaign surged ahead with prominent figures like Barack Obama and Bill Clinton rallying support in critical states, Joe Biden directed his attention towards planning his presidential library.

Considerations for its location include Syracuse, Delaware, and Washington D.C., reflecting Biden’s deep connections to these areas.

Biden’s recent appearances, some say, have painted a picture of a man who is both "lost" and "lonely," as he joked about needing a new job during a White House reception in late August. This period has been one of personal reflection and adjustment to a changing role.

Biden's Legacy and International Honors

In recognition of his long career, Biden recently received Germany's "Order of Merit" and has planned international trips to Sub-Saharan Africa and Brazil for a G20 meeting.

These engagements underscore his ongoing influence and commitment on the global stage, even as his domestic political role diminishes.

Despite having an empty official diary for a significant portion of his remaining days in office, Biden has kept busy with the 'Moonshot' initiative aimed at reducing cancer deaths, showcasing his continued commitment to impactful public service.

The Personal Side of Biden's Presidency

At home, the White House is undergoing transitions, too, with staff preparing for the Bidens to move out and new public rooms and interactive videos being added to the White House tour, updated personally by Jill Biden.

The end of Biden’s presidency is not just a professional transition but also a personal one. As Jill Biden remarked on Good Morning America, stepping away from the White House marks the beginning of "a new journey" after 50 years in politics, signaling the start of a new chapter in their lives.