Biden’s decision is applauded

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democratic lawmakers applauded President Joe Biden’s historic decision not to seek reelection, praising him for putting the country and his party above his personal aspirations.

“Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader, but also a truly amazing human being. Of course, his decision was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, said in a statement.

Biden’s former chief of staff, Ron Klain, called on Democrats to quickly unite around Vice President Kamala Harris as Biden’s natural successor, saying on social media that “it’s time to end the political games and unite around the only person with experience running a national campaign.”

Biden’s announcement reverberated across the country and around the world.

Former President Barack Obama praised his vice president for eight years.

“Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a beloved friend and partner. Today, we are also reminded — again — that he is a patriot in the truest sense of the word,” Obama said.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro praised the American’s decision, calling it “responsible.”

“I know President Biden, and I have to say that in his three years in office we have maintained a permanent dialogue. We still have dialogue committees today,” he declared. “I only tell you, President Biden, be at peace with your conscience because you made a wise and correct decision, and from Venezuela, I, the President of the Republic, wish you health and a long life, President Biden, with differences; but we are Christian and humanist men.”

Global reaction

Isaac Herzog, the president of Israel, was one of the first to react, thanking Biden for being a “true ally of the Jewish people,” not only as president of the United States, but “throughout his decades-long career.”

On his “X” account — the same network where Herzog reacted — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stressed that Biden has done a lot for his country, Europe and the world.

“My friend Joe Biden has achieved a lot – for his country, for Europe, for the world. Thanks to him, transatlantic cooperation is close, NATO is strong and the United States is a good and reliable partner for us. His decision not to run again deserves recognition,” he wrote on social media.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race as “brave and dignified.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he respects Biden’s decision and looks forward to working with him “for the remainder of his presidency.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for “his unwavering support for Ukraine’s struggle for freedom,” a support he said was “fundamental.”

“We will always be grateful for President Biden’s leadership. He stood by our country during the most dramatic moment in history, helping us prevent Putin from occupying our country throughout this terrible war,” he stressed.

Biden reactions, “a profile of courage”

Ken Salazar, United States ambassador to Mexico, praised Joe Biden’s actions.

Sacrifice for the people

Salazar praised Biden’s “courage” in withdrawing from the race thinking of the people and not himself. “President Biden is a true example of courage. His life of service is born of great sacrifices and commitment to serve the American people and the best of humanity,” she said.

Public servant highlighted

“He has worked throughout his career to ensure that no one is left behind, that we build bridges around the world, and that we remain optimistic about the possibilities of our future. I am grateful for his friendship and leadership,” the ambassador concluded in his message.