UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and international leaders have commended Joe Biden’s remarkable career following his surprise withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. Here’s the full story.
Weeks Where Decades Happen
Vladimir Lenin once said, “There are decades where nothing happens, and there are weeks where decades happen.” Following President Biden’s shock withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, it seems that the US is readying itself for an election unlike any in its recent history.
Biden Withdraws From Race
Biden’s decision to withdraw from the upcoming US presidential election, following weeks of speculation over his age and mental acuity after a disastrous TV debate against Trump, has reverberated through political circles both in the United States and internationally. At 81, Biden cited his belief that stepping aside was in “the best interest of my party and the country.”
Concerns Over Biden’s Age
This unexpected move came after serious concerns were raised by Democrat politicians, donors and voters regarding his ability to secure a win against the Republican nominee, Donald Trump. Biden’s announcement stressed his focus on fulfilling his duties for the remainder of his term while offering full support to Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
International Reactions
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was among the first international leaders to respond to Biden’s announcement. Starmer stated, “I respect President Biden’s decision, and I look forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency. I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, President Biden will have made his decision based on what he believes is in the best interests of the American people.”
Admiration From Sunak
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also expressed his admiration for Biden, writing on X, formerly Twitter, “Working with Joe Biden, I saw first-hand his love for America and dedication to service. Our partnership has led to significant achievements, including [military pact] Aukus, steadfast support for Israel and joint efforts in defending our people from Houthi threats. I wish him all the best.”
Praise From Johnson
Sunak’s sentiments were echoed by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who wrote on X, “I salute Joe Biden for the bravery of his decision and also for all he has done as President. He has been a staunch Atlanticist and friend to Britain throughout his career and it was a privilege to work with him.”
Biden Endorses Harris
In his announcement, Biden expressed his “full support and endorsement” for Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. Biden wrote on X, “My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”
Unity Message From Biden
In the letter posted to X announcing his intention to stand down, Biden added, “I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America.”
Harris Responds
Harris, in response, expressed her gratitude for Biden’s extraordinary leadership and his “selfless and patriotic” decision to step down. She stated, “I am honoured to have the president’s endorsement, and my intention is to earn and win this nomination.”
Harris’s Determination
She added, “I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party —and unite our nation — to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda. We have 107 days until Election Day. Together, we will fight. And together, we will win.”
Trump’s Reaction
Despite the outpouring of support for Biden from around the globe, not everyone was sorry to see Biden step down. Former President and convicted felon Donald Trump, writing on Truth Social, the social media site he set up after he was banned from the vast majority of social media following the failed insurrection on January 6th, stated, “Joe Biden was not fit to run for President, and is certainly not fit to serve – And never was!”
Trump’s Criticism
He continued, “We will suffer greatly because of his presidency, but we will remedy the damage he has done very quickly. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Farage’s Prediction
Similarly, back in the UK, Trump ally and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage stated, “I predicted this would happen in September 2023. Whoever they pick, Trump will win in November.”
Democratic Party’s Challenge
As Biden steps aside, the Democratic Party faces the unenviable task of rallying behind a new candidate to challenge Donald Trump in the upcoming election. With Biden’s endorsement, Kamala Harris is the most likely pick for the nomination. Still, other high-profile Democrats will likely be sounding out potential support ahead of the election in November.
Future Uncertain
It remains to be seen what Biden’s decision will mean for the results of the US election and what impact the most unpredictable American election in years might have on the future of US-UK relations.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / ArChe1993.