Joe Biden gave a lengthy valedictory speech at the Democratic convention on Monday, defending his legacy and highlighting how his presidency brought the country back together after the divisiveness of the Trump years.
In his speech, Biden urged the convention to support Kamala Harris as his successor and praised his decision to choose her as his vice-president, calling it the best decision of his career.
While advocating for Harris, Biden also highlighted his accomplishments during his presidency, emphasizing his economic policies, foreign policy successes, and legislative victories. He mentioned the expansion of NATO and support for Ukraine against Russian invasion, noting that Ukraine remains free three years later.
Despite his advocacy for Harris, some saw Biden’s speech as a potential pitch for another four years in office. The packed arena gave him a standing ovation and chanted “Thank you, Joe!” throughout his address.
Biden acknowledged that his time as president was coming to an end, expressing gratitude for the honor of serving and stating that he loves his country more than the job itself. He reflected on his career with a mix of wistfulness and pride, quoting a popular song and acknowledging his mistakes.
The Democratic party is working to unite behind Harris after internal conflicts over White House policies and efforts to replace Biden as the party’s presidential candidate. The convention included speeches from notable figures like Hillary Clinton and will culminate with Harris’s formal nomination.
As Biden vowed to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and address the ongoing conflict, protesters outside the convention venue raised their voices against his policies. Despite this, Biden expressed a commitment to ending the war and left Chicago after his speech, skipping the rest of the convention.
Overall, the convention showcased support for Harris and optimism for the future, with delegates and officials praising her energy and passion. The Democratic party is looking ahead to the upcoming election with confidence, buoyed by the enthusiasm surrounding Harris’s candidacy.
