The former president Barack Obama expressed his support for the president Joe Biden after withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race, calling him “a patriot of the highest order.”
“I know Joe has never backed down from a fight,” a statement from the office of Barack and Michelle Obama said. “Looking at the political landscape and deciding that he must pass the baton to a new candidate is certainly one of the most difficult decisions of his life. But I know he would not have made this decision if he did not believe it was right for America. It is a testament to Joe Biden’s love for his country — and a historic example of a genuine public servant who once again put the interests of the American people above his own, one that future generations of leaders would do well to emulate.”
“We will sail in uncharted waters”
“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead,” the statement continued. “But I have great confidence that our party leaders will be able to create a process that will produce an exceptional candidate. I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that offers opportunity to all will be on full display at the Democratic convention in August. And I hope that each of us will be ready to carry that message of hope and progress into November and beyond.”
The statement does not include an endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic nominee.
Joe Biden has been one of America’s most important presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we were also reminded – once again – that he is a patriot of the highest order.
Here is my full statement: https://t.co/Bs2ZumFXxe
-Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 21, 2024