
Key Message: The Soul of America at Stake
President Joe Biden, in a farewell letter marking the end of his presidency, revisited a central theme of his leadership: the “soul of America.” In his letter, Biden reiterated that the nation's core values remain at risk, echoing the sentiments of his 2020 campaign against Donald Trump. “I ran for president because I believed that the soul of America was at stake,” Biden, 82, wrote. “And that’s still the case.”
Biden emphasized that the United States is built on the principle of equality and unalienable rights, acknowledging that while the nation has fallen short of fully realizing these ideals, it has never abandoned them.
Reflecting on Four Years of Challenges
Biden described his presidency as a time of profound challenges, referencing the COVID-19 pandemic, economic turmoil, and threats to democracy. “Four years ago, we stood in a winter of peril and a winter of possibilities,” Biden stated. “We came together as Americans, and we braved through it. We emerged stronger, more prosperous, and more secure.”
His tenure also witnessed efforts to rebuild the economy, address climate change, and restore international alliances. However, critics, including his successor, Donald Trump, blame Biden for high inflation, surges in illegal immigration, and what they describe as politicization of the Justice Department.
A Personal Reflection on Service
In his letter, Biden expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation for over five decades, tracing his journey from modest beginnings in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to the Oval Office. “It has been the privilege of my life to serve this nation,” Biden wrote. “I have given my heart and soul to our nation and been blessed a million times in return with the love and support of the American people.”
Looking Ahead to Transition
Biden’s letter comes as Donald Trump prepares to take office once again, pledging sweeping changes, including large-scale deportations, dismantling Biden’s environmental policies, and reforms to the Justice Department.
Trump has criticized Biden’s final actions in office, labeling them as obstacles to a smooth transition. “Biden is doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
The Inauguration and Notable Absences
Biden, joined by First Lady Jill Biden, will attend his successor’s inauguration on January 20. Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama are also expected to attend. However, notable absences include Michelle Obama, who will not participate in the event. Her team provided no explanation for her decision following her absence from Jimmy Carter’s recent funeral.
The Final Note: Unity and Optimism
Biden concluded his letter with a call for unity and faith in the American spirit. “History is in your hands. The idea of America lies in your hands. We are the United States of America, and there is simply nothing beyond our capacity when we do it together.” As the nation prepares for its next chapter, Biden’s message underscores a legacy of resilience and hope, even amidst division.
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