Biden Bows Out: A Historic Exit from the 2024 Presidential Race

President Joe Biden ended his political career in isolation, marking one of the most historic decisions in modern American politics. After weeks of struggling to maintain his campaign momentum following a poor debate performance, Biden announced his withdrawal in a letter posted to social media from his beach house in Delaware, where he was recovering from COVID-19.

This unexpected revelation came just 107 days before Election Day, making Biden the first president to exit a reelection race so close to the election. For 24 days after the June 27 CNN debate in Atlanta, Biden repeatedly insisted he would stay in the race against former President Donald Trump. However, mounting pressure from party leaders, lawmakers, donors, and declining poll numbers eventually led to his decision.

Biden’s campaign had hoped the early debate with Trump would rejuvenate his bid. Instead, it highlighted concerns about his age and health, further damaging his campaign. Despite his efforts to reassure Democrats, including a defiant post-debate tour, Biden couldn’t dispel the growing perception that he was unfit for another term.

On Sunday afternoon, Biden posted two messages on social media: one announcing his exit from the race and another endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. This move aims to unite the Democratic Party and refocus their efforts against Trump, who is at his campaign’s strongest point following a unified Republican National Convention.

The Decision-Making Process

Biden’s final decision to leave the race was made over the last 48 hours, consulting family and top advisers by phone while recovering from COVID-19. A senior campaign adviser noted that Biden wasn’t firmly opposed to withdrawing but was influenced by data showing his campaign’s declining viability.

Reports indicated that Biden’s inner circle, including longtime advisers Mike Donilon and Steve Ricchetti, provided him with polling data and insights from Democratic officials, highlighting the diminishing chances of a successful campaign. Despite their loyalty, they did not explicitly tell Biden to exit, but the evidence pointed to an insurmountable path to victory.

Biden spent the weekend in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, with his family. He held a crucial family meeting Saturday night, confirming his decision to withdraw on Sunday morning. Biden then began making calls to key players outside his immediate circle, informing them of his decision.

Impact and Reactions

Biden’s announcement surprised many, including close aides who were only informed minutes before the public announcement. His vice president and chosen successor, Kamala Harris, also found out on the day of the announcement.

Following the debate, more than three dozen Democrats publicly called for Biden to exit the race, citing concerns about his ability to win against Trump and the impact on down-ballot races. Democratic pollsters and major donors also expressed doubts about Biden’s viability, which further pressured him to reconsider his candidacy.

In a final effort to show his commitment to the campaign, Biden held public appearances, including interviews and speeches. However, a positive COVID-19 diagnosis forced him to isolate, further limiting his campaign activities.

Despite a loyal inner circle and a defiant stance, Biden ultimately decided to step aside for the good of the party. His exit marks a significant moment in American politics, as the Democratic Party now pivots to rally behind Kamala Harris in the race against Donald Trump.