Biden bows out, but his policies and priorities remain strong
Although Pres. Joe Biden will not be his party’s standard-bearer, his successor would do well to stress the benefits he brought to Washington and the nation.
Editorial: As Biden Bows Out, His Policies and Priorities Endure
July 22, 2024
Earlier this year, this editorial board proudly endorsed President Joe Biden for a second term. Today, we stand by his decision to withdraw from the presidential race.
In the months following our endorsement, Biden delivered a spirited State of the Union address, highlighting his administration's significant policy achievements. However, his recent performance during a debate with former President Donald Trump raised concerns about his ability to lead for another term.
Biden's age and verbal fluency have become obstacles to his campaign. Despite this, he has always connected with the underdog and embodied quiet decency and a belief in the positive role of government in improving citizens' lives.
While Biden will not lead his party in the upcoming election, his successor should emphasize the positive impact he had on Washington and the nation. Under Biden's leadership, the state's unemployment rate dropped significantly, and he secured several legislative accomplishments, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Biden faced a challenging political climate fueled by lies and insurrection. The fact that Trump is now positioned to reclaim the White House is deeply troubling. Biden's efforts to uphold democratic values and prioritize the growth of the middle class, global competitiveness, and addressing income inequality and climate change must continue.
As the Democratic Party moves forward, Vice President Kamala Harris emerges as a leading contender. However, a robust debate and competitive process will strengthen the eventual nominee. A strategic move toward the center, with a running mate from a red or swing state, could be advantageous. Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat from Minnesota, is a worthy contender.
As Biden's torch passes to the next leader, we reaffirm the importance of upholding his values and priorities for the future of America. The Seattle Times editorial board stands united in this belief.
The Seattle Times editorial board includes editorial page editor Kate Riley, Frank A. Blethen, Melissa Davis, Josh Farley, Alex Fryer, Claudia Rowe, Carlton Winfrey, and William K. Blethen (emeritus).
July 22, 2024
Earlier this year, this editorial board proudly endorsed President Joe Biden for a second term. Today, we stand by his decision to withdraw from the presidential race.
In the months following our endorsement, Biden delivered a spirited State of the Union address, highlighting his administration's significant policy achievements. However, his recent performance during a debate with former President Donald Trump raised concerns about his ability to lead for another term.
Biden's age and verbal fluency have become obstacles to his campaign. Despite this, he has always connected with the underdog and embodied quiet decency and a belief in the positive role of government in improving citizens' lives.
While Biden will not lead his party in the upcoming election, his successor should emphasize the positive impact he had on Washington and the nation. Under Biden's leadership, the state's unemployment rate dropped significantly, and he secured several legislative accomplishments, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Biden faced a challenging political climate fueled by lies and insurrection. The fact that Trump is now positioned to reclaim the White House is deeply troubling. Biden's efforts to uphold democratic values and prioritize the growth of the middle class, global competitiveness, and addressing income inequality and climate change must continue.
As the Democratic Party moves forward, Vice President Kamala Harris emerges as a leading contender. However, a robust debate and competitive process will strengthen the eventual nominee. A strategic move toward the center, with a running mate from a red or swing state, could be advantageous. Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat from Minnesota, is a worthy contender.
As Biden's torch passes to the next leader, we reaffirm the importance of upholding his values and priorities for the future of America. The Seattle Times editorial board stands united in this belief.
The Seattle Times editorial board includes editorial page editor Kate Riley, Frank A. Blethen, Melissa Davis, Josh Farley, Alex Fryer, Claudia Rowe, Carlton Winfrey, and William K. Blethen (emeritus).