Biden says he’s ‘passing the torch’ in first speech after dropping out of 2024 race

President Joe Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office on Wednesday evening (24 July). It was his first speech since announcing he was ending his 2024 reelection bid.

“I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, my vision for America’s future, all merited a second term,” Biden said. “But nothing, nothing, can come in the way of saving our democracy.”

The president reiterated the importance of “passing the torch” to a new generation and praised Kamala Harris, who he has endorsed to take his place in the race.