At the second White House press conference since President Biden announced he would not seek a second term in office, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated that Biden’s decision is not based on his health, but is to complete his current term.
“President Biden has accomplished more in nearly four years than most presidents accomplish in eight years and will go down in history as one of the greatest presidents in American history,” Jean-Pierre said.
She read a statement from Biden, in which he said, “Like so many of us, I have given my heart and soul to our country, and in return I have been blessed a million fold with the love and support of the American people.”
Jean-Pierre said Biden made it clear in his speech on Wednesday night that he would focus the next six months on delivering his duties as president of the United States and building on historic achievements for the American people.
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At a White House press briefing on Friday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to comment on the unrest that has been continuing overnight in the Middle East. (Getty Images)
“First, I want to say what this country witnessed last night was historic. We saw the leadership we’ve always seen in Joe Biden. We saw a man who puts country first, surrounded by his family, as he has always done,” Jean-Pierre said. “You heard the president say, ‘I respect this office, but I love my country more.'”
Jean-Pierre went on to explain why Biden is dropping out of the 2024 presidential race, saying he feels defending democracy is more important than any title.
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White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre with President Joe Biden. (Getty Images)
“I find strength and joy in serving the American people. But this sacred mission of perfecting our union is not about me. It’s about you, your families, your future. It’s about us, the people. And I have decided that the best way to move forward is to pass the baton to a new generation,” she said, quoting Biden.
“This is the best way to unite our country. It’s a selfless act, something most politicians won’t do,” Jean-Pierre said of Biden’s resignation.
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President Joe Biden descends the steps of Air Force One at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Wednesday, July 17, 2024. President Biden is back at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, to self-isolate after testing positive for COVID-19. (Susan Walsh/The Associated Press)
Biden has previously said there are only three things that would stop him from seeking reelection: God Almighty, his health, or if his team proves unable to win. When pressed on the issue, Jean-Pierre reiterated that his health was not the reason for his decision.
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“I can only say that this is not a medical decision. It has been asked before and we have answered in a very frank and direct way. I will say nothing more than that,” Jean-Pierre said.
