President Joe Biden is set to deliver a poignant farewell address at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Monday.
He will pass the mantle to Vice President Kamala Harris, the party's nominee for the upcoming November election. After his unexpected decision to withdraw from the race, Biden is expected to receive a warm send-off from the people concerned about his age who contributed to his departure.
At 81, Biden will endorse Harris, the first female, Black, and South Asian vice president, as the best candidate to continue his mission of safeguarding American democracy from Republican challenger Donald Trump. Harris will join Biden on stage during his primetime speech, symbolizing unity within the party as they transition leadership.
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Despite the unity, Biden’s tenure is marred by a significant protest in Chicago against his administration’s support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Biden, who spent the weekend at Camp David refining his speech, expressed confidence in his address. As he approaches the end of his single-term presidency, Biden’s legacy will largely depend on Harris’s success in defeating Trump. If she fails, many may criticize Biden for delaying his exit.
First Lady Jill Biden, a steadfast supporter, will also take the stage in Chicago. However, the president’s emotions are likely mixed as he watches Harris gain momentum among voters in a way he couldn’t.
After his speech, Biden will leave for a six-day holiday in California. Harris will deliver her keynote address on Thursday, a spot that once belonged to Biden.
As Biden prepares to close his five-decade political career, Democrats are expected to give him a heartfelt farewell.
