Biden, a president in transition, will argue for Harris as he passes the Democratic torch
Joe Biden has prepared for major speeches throughout his presidency the same way: huddling with his closest advisers at Camp David, with few outside distractions to cloud the group’s brainstorming and editing sessions.
Joe Biden is set to deliver a major speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Monday, marking a significant moment in his political career. This will be his final chance to address his party before the November election, and it's expected to be one of his last major public appearances before he transitions to a supportive role in the campaign.
While advisers insist that the speech is far from Biden's farewell, it will be delivered after a month of turmoil following his decision to exit the 2024 presidential race. Biden's speech is seen as an opportunity to cement his legacy and focus intently on foreign policy, particularly highlighting the progress made during his presidency.
The speech will likely showcase a visual narrative of the US economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the shift from school closures and remote work to a fully open economy. Biden will argue that Vice President Kamala Harris is the natural successor to this progress and will frame his accomplishments as a foundation for her to build upon.
He will also reiterate his warnings about the threat posed by Donald Trump to democracy, emphasizing the importance of electing Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, to safeguard the country from that threat.
The speech marks a symbolic transition for Biden, who initially planned to lead the convention as the party's nominee. The events of the past month, however, have shifted his focus to supporting Harris's candidacy. Despite the challenging circumstances, Biden's immediate endorsement of Harris played a crucial role in unifying the party behind her.
Biden's aides believe that his decision to endorse Harris as soon as he withdrew from the race, preventing any potential challenges to her candidacy, will be remembered as a defining moment in his legacy. They also highlight his role in supporting Harris's policy successes, including prescription drug price reductions and crime rate decreases.
While Biden acknowledges his supportive role in the remaining campaign, he will still make an appearance on the campaign trail, particularly in Pennsylvania. However, he will only actively participate if Harris and her team request his presence.
Despite the recent events, many voters, particularly Democrats, still view Biden as the individual who defeated Trump and implemented impactful policies. His decision to step aside for Harris further solidifies this perception, according to Anita Dunn, a former Biden strategist.
The convention will provide a platform for Biden to reinforce this positive sentiment, potentially benefiting Harris's campaign.
Beyond the speech itself, the convention will also feature tributes to Biden's legacy and his contributions to the Democratic party. His favorite phrases and slogans, such as "Spread the faith" and "Cup of Joe," will be seen throughout the convention.
The presence of First Lady Jill Biden at the convention further emphasizes the family's support for Harris and their commitment to ensuring her success.
Following his speech, Biden will leave Chicago for a vacation in Southern California, officially handing the reins to Harris and signaling the beginning of a new chapter in American politics.
While advisers insist that the speech is far from Biden's farewell, it will be delivered after a month of turmoil following his decision to exit the 2024 presidential race. Biden's speech is seen as an opportunity to cement his legacy and focus intently on foreign policy, particularly highlighting the progress made during his presidency.
The speech will likely showcase a visual narrative of the US economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the shift from school closures and remote work to a fully open economy. Biden will argue that Vice President Kamala Harris is the natural successor to this progress and will frame his accomplishments as a foundation for her to build upon.
He will also reiterate his warnings about the threat posed by Donald Trump to democracy, emphasizing the importance of electing Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, to safeguard the country from that threat.
The speech marks a symbolic transition for Biden, who initially planned to lead the convention as the party's nominee. The events of the past month, however, have shifted his focus to supporting Harris's candidacy. Despite the challenging circumstances, Biden's immediate endorsement of Harris played a crucial role in unifying the party behind her.
Biden's aides believe that his decision to endorse Harris as soon as he withdrew from the race, preventing any potential challenges to her candidacy, will be remembered as a defining moment in his legacy. They also highlight his role in supporting Harris's policy successes, including prescription drug price reductions and crime rate decreases.
While Biden acknowledges his supportive role in the remaining campaign, he will still make an appearance on the campaign trail, particularly in Pennsylvania. However, he will only actively participate if Harris and her team request his presence.
Despite the recent events, many voters, particularly Democrats, still view Biden as the individual who defeated Trump and implemented impactful policies. His decision to step aside for Harris further solidifies this perception, according to Anita Dunn, a former Biden strategist.
The convention will provide a platform for Biden to reinforce this positive sentiment, potentially benefiting Harris's campaign.
Beyond the speech itself, the convention will also feature tributes to Biden's legacy and his contributions to the Democratic party. His favorite phrases and slogans, such as "Spread the faith" and "Cup of Joe," will be seen throughout the convention.
The presence of First Lady Jill Biden at the convention further emphasizes the family's support for Harris and their commitment to ensuring her success.
Following his speech, Biden will leave Chicago for a vacation in Southern California, officially handing the reins to Harris and signaling the beginning of a new chapter in American politics.