Biden Reflects on Achievements in Final Address

President Joe Biden delivered a poignant farewell address Wednesday, outlining the triumphs and challenges of his administration while issuing a cautionary message about preserving American democracy.

Biden urged the nation to remain vigilant against the rise of oligarchic power in the U.S. and praised a recently brokered Middle East cease-fire.

Although Joe Biden was optimistic about the job he had done, at least one of his staffers recently didn't agree with the sentiment Joe Biden put forward in his speech. John Kirby wasn't so quick to credit Biden for the ceasefire, instead saying that Donald Trump deserves "plenty of credit."

Regardless of what Kirby said, Joe Biden had a speech to deliver, and he intended to present himself in the best possible light.

Delivered from the Oval Office

Biden’s speech began with a call for national unity and acknowledgment of a significant international success. He took credit for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, achieved after eight months of diplomatic efforts. The agreement was finalized on the day of his address, following discussions involving Trump's newly appointed Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Biden's Concerns About Democracy

Biden expressed profound concerns over the growing economic inequality within the U.S. Highlighting the "concentration of power" among a select few wealthy individuals, he warned this trend poses a threat to the nation’s democratic principles.

He described unfolding economic dynamics as an emerging "oligarchy” formed by individuals with immense wealth and power. This, he argued, endangers the democratic ethos that America has long championed on the global stage.

In a symbolic gesture, Biden invoked the emblematic Statue of Liberty, underscoring its representation of freedom and opportunity. He reiterated his belief in America’s foundational ideals, which have been the focus of his extensive career in public service.

Reflecting on a Legacy of Service

With over half a century in public office, including 36 years in the Senate and two terms as vice president under Obama, Biden’s address marked a reflective moment on his lengthy political journey.

He expressed gratitude to the American people and emphasized the sincerity of his lifelong commitment to the nation’s ideals. Reaffirming his dedication to these principles, Biden entrusted the American public with the continued safeguarding of democratic values.

Touching on the 2020 election, Biden recalled his victory over Donald Trump but also his withdrawal from the subsequent candidacy amid questions about his cognitive health. Despite endorsing Kamala Harris, she ultimately lost to Trump in the recent election.

Proposals for Future Governance

Biden's address also included proposals for political reform, which he deemed essential for the health of American democracy. These reforms included overhauling the tax system to ensure fairness, constitutional amendments to improve presidential accountability, the removal of dark money from politics, and the imposition of term limits on Supreme Court justices.

Despite the transition of power, Biden showed a willingness to support his successor. Promising a peaceful handover, he confirmed his attendance at Trump’s upcoming inauguration on January 20.

Addressing the nation, he called for vigilance and dedication to preserving American values. “May you all be the keeper of the flame,” he stated, encouraging citizens to "keep the faith" in protecting the democratic structure.

Public Opinion on Transition

As the transition of power unfolds, public opinion presents a mixed picture of the sitting and incoming presidents. According to a Fox News Poll, Trump received 52% approval for managing the transition process, whereas a CNN poll reported only 36% approval for Biden’s overall performance in office.

In his farewell message, Biden expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “I love America. You love it too,” he declared, emphasizing the shared bond and civic duty to sustain national ideals.

As he closes this chapter of his political career, Biden leaves a message of resolve and optimism, asserting a continued belief in the nation's core values. He signed off with a heartfelt wish, “God bless you all. May God protect our troops,” marking the conclusions of an era and the start of another under Trump's leadership.