In his farewell address delivered from the Oval Office, U.S. President Joe Biden reflected on his decades-long political career while issuing a warning about the growing concentration of power in America. Speaking to the nation, Biden expressed concern over the emergence of an oligarchy characterized by extreme wealth and influence, which he believes threatens the very foundation of American democracy.
Biden’s address came shortly after he, alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, announced a significant ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas. This development marks a notable achievement in Biden’s foreign policy, one he has pursued for over a year. He acknowledged the complexities of the negotiations, describing them as some of the toughest of his career, but expressed deep satisfaction with the outcome.
As he prepares to hand over the presidency to Donald Trump, Biden reflected on the accomplishments of his administration, particularly in navigating the country through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted investments in infrastructure and climate change, stating, “In the past four years, our democracy has held strong.” He emphasized that the American dream should be accessible to all and that hard work should determine one’s success.
“Our system of separation of powers, checks and balances, may not be perfect,” Biden remarked, “but it’s maintained our democracy for nearly 250 years—longer than any other nation in history that has ever tried such a bold experiment.”
Biden also addressed the misinformation challenges facing the nation, asserting that the impact of his administration’s achievements may take time to be fully realized. He urged Americans to remain committed to the idea that everyone deserves a fair shot at success, saying, “We can never lose that essential truth.”
As he concluded his remarks, Biden reflected on the privilege of serving the nation for over 50 years, expressing gratitude for the support he has received from the American people. “I’ve given my heart and soul to you, and I’ve been blessed a million times in return,” he said.
Public opinion on Biden’s presidency remains mixed. Recent surveys indicate that a majority of Americans view his tenure as “below average” or “poor,” while a smaller percentage believe he will be remembered as “outstanding” or “above average.”
In his final moments as the 46th President, Biden reiterated the importance of unity and collaboration, stating, “That’s how it should be, working together.” His address serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and accomplishments of his administration as he prepares to leave the White House.
