The entire statement in which Joe Biden announces that he is not seeking re-election

“Dear Americans,

Over the past three and a half years, we have made great progress as a country.

Today, the United States has the world’s strongest economy. We have made historic investments in rebuilding our country, in lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, and in expanding access to affordable health care to a record number of Americans. We have secured vital health care for one million veterans who were exposed to toxic substances. Passed the first gun safety law in 30 years. Appointed the first African-American woman to the Supreme Court. And adopted the most comprehensive climate legislation in world history. The United States has never been better suited to lead than today.

I know none of this could have been done without you, the American people. Together, we got through a century-long pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We have protected and safeguarded our democracy. And we have given new life to and strengthened our alliances worldwide.

It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve you as President. And although it has been my intention to seek re-election, I now believe it is in the best interest of my party and country to step down and focus solely on fulfilling my duties as president for the remainder of this election period.

I will address the country later this week to explain my decision in detail.

At this time, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has worked so hard to get me re-elected. I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for being an extraordinary partner in all of this work. And let me express my sincere appreciation to the American people for the confidence and trust you have placed in me.

I mean the same thing today as I always have: That there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember that we are the United States of America.

– Joe Biden»

He later posted another message on X:

“Dear fellow Democrats, I have decided that I will not accept the nomination (as presidential candidate) and will focus all my efforts on carrying out my duties as president for the remainder of the election period. My very first decision as the party’s presidential candidate in 2020 was to choose Kamala Harris as my vice president. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made. Today I will offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to become our party’s candidate this year. Democrats – it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s make it happen”