As President Joe Biden prepares to leave office, a mix of reflections, questions, and criticisms surround his final days as the oldest leader in American history.
From his decision to step down after one term to moments of cognitive lapses that raised eyebrows, Biden’s tenure has sparked heated conversations across the political spectrum.
Biden’s Decision to Step Aside After Debate Debacle
In June 2024, Biden shocked many when he announced he would not seek re-election after a disastrous debate performance.
Critics pointed to signs of physical frailty and cognitive struggles, questioning his ability to lead.
This pivotal moment marked the beginning of the end for Biden’s time in the Oval Office, with his decision leaving Vice President Kamala Harris to lead the Democratic ticket in what became a historic defeat to Donald Trump.
Questions About Who Was Really in Charge
House Speaker Mike Johnson recently shared a concerning anecdote about Biden’s leadership.
In a private Oval Office meeting, Johnson asked Biden about an executive order halting liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports—a decision that puzzled allies in Europe.
To Johnson’s astonishment, Biden denied signing the order, despite its presence on the White House website.
Johnson admitted walking away from the meeting feeling unsettled, questioning who was truly running the country.
This story has reignited debates about how much agency Biden maintained during his presidency.
Managing the President’s Decline Behind the Scenes
According to insiders, managing Biden’s public appearances required careful planning.
Staff reportedly adjusted his schedule to accommodate his energy levels, delayed delivering bad news to him, and even shortened the steps to Air Force One to prevent public stumbles.
In private, Biden relied on a teleprompter for small fundraisers and required donors to submit pre-approved questions.
These measures aimed to protect the president’s image, but they also raised questions about transparency and authenticity.
The Role of Trusted Allies
Close confidants like First Lady Jill Biden, Hunter Biden, and key aides worked tirelessly to manage the president’s decline.
They tightly controlled access to him, ensuring only a select few witnessed his senior moments.
However, critics argue this approach shielded the public from understanding the full extent of his struggles.
Biden’s Reflections on His Presidency
Despite the challenges, Biden has remained defiant in his final days, insisting he could have defeated Trump in a hypothetical rematch.
While he acknowledged his age as a factor, he believed he had the momentum to secure a second term, if only to unify a divided Democratic Party.
“I think I would have beaten Trump—could have beaten Trump,” Biden said in a recent interview.
He also expressed confidence in Harris’s ability to win, though her loss in the general election painted a different picture.
A Presidency Shaped by Controversy and Challenges
As Biden steps down, his presidency leaves a mixed legacy.
From historic legislative wins to personal struggles that became public, his time in office will be debated for years to come.
While some commend his efforts to unify the nation, others question whether his leadership was overshadowed by a decline in health and decision-making.
Looking Ahead: Trump’s Return to Power
With Trump set to return to the presidency, the political landscape enters uncharted territory.
Biden’s tenure serves as a reminder of the complexities of leadership, the human element of politics, and the ever-present challenge of maintaining public trust.
As the nation reflects on his legacy, one question remains: what lessons will history take from Biden’s presidency?
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