Barack Obama has broken his silence on Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, offering high praise for his former vice president while stopping short of endorsing any current candidate.
The 44th POTUS released a statement Sunday, offering a glowing tribute to the sitting president, whom he called a "patriot of the highest order." Obama expressed his admiration for Biden's character, which he came to appreciate during their years working together. He credited Biden's leadership with saving the country from ruin over the past few years.
Obama highlighted Biden's achievements in economic recovery, international relations, and climate change initiatives. However, he noted that Biden's greatest accomplishment was preventing Donald Trump from returning to office in 2020.
Obama acknowledged that Biden had every right to run for reelection, and he recognized that stepping down must have been a difficult decision for the sitting president, known for his resilience.
Did you read this?
Regarding the future of the Democratic race, Obama refrained from immediately endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris. Instead, he expressed "extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will create a process from which an outstanding nominee will emerge," signaling his intention to wait and see how the primary unfolds.
Biden has already endorsed Kamala Harris, who expressed her gratitude for his support. However, Obama's approach mirrors his strategy from 2016 when he waited until Hillary Clinton secured the nomination before endorsing her.
Recent reports suggested that Obama privately urged Democratic allies to encourage Biden to step aside for the good of the party, though he did not directly tell Biden this.
In any case, Obama's statement is filled with kind words for Biden, even as he remains cautious about endorsing the next president.
