US President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the 2024 race for the White House, ending his bid for re-election following a disastrous debate with Donald Trump that raised doubts about his suitability for office just four months before the election.
The decision comes after mounting pressure from Mr Biden’s Democratic allies to step aside following the 27 June debate, in which the 81-year-old president trailed off, often gave nonsensical answers, and failed to criticise the former president’s numerous falsehoods.
Mr Biden plans to serve out the remainder of his term in office, which concludes at noon on 20 January 2025.
“It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve as your president. And while it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” Mr Biden wrote in a letter posted to his X, formerly Twitter, account.
Mr Biden (81) offered his full support and endorsement to Vice President Kamala Harris.
“My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” he said.
