On Sunday, July 21, President Joe Biden made an unexpected declaration on social media that has sent ripples through the American political landscape. Announcing that he will not seek reelection, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate for the upcoming presidential race. This decision, which caught many Americans off guard, has added a layer of uncertainty and excitement to the forthcoming elections. In his announcement, Biden reflected on the progress made during his tenure, listing several significant achievements that have shaped his presidency.
His Achievements
Economic Strength and Rebuilding Efforts
Under Biden’s leadership, the United States has emerged as the strongest economy in the world. His administration has made historic investments in rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure and economy. Biden’s focus on economic recovery has been evident from the outset of his presidency, with substantial investments aimed at revitalizing various sectors and supporting American workers.
Healthcare Advancements and Prescription Drug Costs
One of Biden’s notable achievements is the significant progress in making healthcare more affordable and accessible. His administration has worked diligently to lower prescription drug costs for seniors, providing much-needed relief to millions of Americans.
Veterans’ Care and Support
Biden’s administration has also prioritized the well-being of veterans. Recognizing the sacrifices made by those who served, Biden ensured that critically needed care was provided to a million veterans exposed to toxic substances. This initiative highlights his dedication to supporting veterans and addressing the health challenges they face.
Historic Legislation and Judicial Appointments
The first gun safety law in 30 years was enacted under his leadership, representing a crucial step toward addressing gun violence in America. Additionally, Biden made history by appointing the first African-American woman to the Supreme Court, a move that underscores his commitment to diversity and inclusion in the judiciary.
Climate Legislation and Environmental Initiatives
Biden’s administration has also achieved major milestones in climate legislation. The passage of the most significant climate legislation in history marks a pivotal moment in the global fight against climate change. This comprehensive legislation aims to reduce carbon emissions, promote clean energy, and protect the environment for future generations.
Pandemic Aid and Economic Relief
Joe Biden assumed the presidency in the COVID-19 pandemic, a crisis that required swift and decisive action. In March 2021, he launched a $1.9 trillion pandemic aid package, which created a series of new programs aimed at supporting American families and businesses. This aid package temporarily halved child poverty, halted evictions and contributed to the addition of 15.7 million jobs.
Infrastructure and Supply Chain Improvements
Amid rising inflation and fluctuating popularity, Biden took executive actions to address global supply chain issues. He also secured a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package that replaced aging infrastructure, improved internet access, and prepared communities to withstand climate-related damages.
Wage Growth and Healthcare Enrollment
Biden’s tenure has seen wage increases that outpaced inflation, according to a Bloomberg analysis. This growth in wages has improved the standard of living for many Americans. Additionally, his administration has seen a significant boost in the number of people signing up for government healthcare programs, further expanding access to essential medical services.
Foreign Policy and Military Decisions
On the international front, Biden has sought to strengthen alliances and compete more aggressively with global powers like China. His efforts to rebuild alliances, such as NATO, have reinforced America’s position on the world stage. Biden also completed the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, a complex and controversial decision that resulted in the tragic loss of 13 U.S. service members.
Support for Ukraine and Stance Against Russia
Biden has taken a firm stance against Russian aggression by providing ongoing military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Over the past two years, his administration has supported Ukraine’s efforts to resist Russian advances, a move that has drawn criticism from the Republican Party. This support underscores Biden’s commitment to defending democratic values and supporting allies in their struggles for sovereignty and freedom.
Advocacy for Women’s Right
One of the defining aspects of Biden’s presidency has been his unwavering support for women’s rights. He took a strong stand against the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, advocating for the right to safe and legal abortion across the country.
What The People Are Saying
There have been quite a lot of conspiracy theories revolving around the upcoming election. Republicans float a quiet conspiracy theory that Biden won’t be on the ballot. The mostly unfounded chatter includes talk that Democrats secretly want to replace him with former first lady Michelle Obama or California Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Some of these conspiracies are being propagated by Republicans who do not seem to be in support of President Joe Biden. One such Republican is Senator Ted Cruz, who in his podcast last month, said, “So here’s the scenario that I think is perhaps the most likely and most dangerous. In August of 2024, the Democrat kingmakers jettisoned Joe Biden and parachuted in Michelle Obama. I view this as a very serious danger.”
“Right now the thinking among Republicans that I know is that he may be the initial nominee and they swap out somebody else at the [Democratic] convention,” said Cynthia Yockey, a 69-year-old from Fairfield, Iowa, who voted for Donald Trump in both 2016 and 2020. “Because that will let the real leaders of the party, of the Democratic Party, make the decision instead of the people.”
“I feel like they’re grooming someone, and we all know it’s not Kamala [Harris],” Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., who is running for the Republican presidential nomination, told the “Ruthless” podcast last week. “So I think they [Democrats] have a backup plan because every time I listen to the current President speak, I’m like, ‘Is this getting harder?'”
However, in response, Kevin Munoz, a spokesperson for the Biden campaign, replied that “Republicans peddling blatantly false conspiracy theories is nothing new — it’s easier than telling the truth about their election-denying, abortion-banning, and Social Security-cutting platform. These sources would also have you believe we faked the moon landing and that Tupac is hanging out with Elvis on an island somewhere in the Caribbean.”
“These lies don’t change the fact that Joe Biden will again beat MAGA Republicans and their twice-rejected agenda in 2024 as his party’s nominee for president,” Munoz continued.
The idea, centered largely on the thought that Biden is too old and not sharp enough mentally, is that there’s a secret plan to replace Biden due to his health or other reasons, amorphous Illuminati-type forces within the Democratic Party. It is not a mainstream thought within the Republican Party, but it has maintained a persistent foothold among a relevant chunk of the GOP base taking their cues from some party officials who continue to toy with the idea.
As Joe Biden’s presidency draws to a close, his decision not to seek reelection marks a significant moment in American politics. By endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate, Biden has set the stage for a new chapter in the nation’s leadership. His tenure has been characterized by significant achievements in economic growth, healthcare, veterans’ support, gun safety, judicial appointments, climate action, and more.
However, many people think that “If he’s not fit to run for reelection, then he’s not fit to stay in the White House.”
Written By Chiamaka Adindu