President Joe Biden engaged in an extended Q&A session with reporters Friday evening, during which he expressed strong confidence in his and Vice President Kamala Harris’s ability to defeat former President Donald Trump in an election. Speaking after touting recent economic gains, including another month of job growth and low inflation, Joe Biden addressed the 2024 election and reflected on his decision not to seek re-election.
“I think I would have beaten Trump – could have beaten Trump,” Biden stated. He further elaborated, “And I think that Kamala could have beaten Trump, would have beaten Trump.” However, he acknowledged that his decision to step aside was rooted in a desire to unify the Democratic Party, fearing that internal divisions could cost them the election. Despite Biden’s confidence, Trump went on to defeat Harris in all seven swing states and secured the popular vote in the 2024 election.
Joe Biden Reflects on Democratic Unity
Joe Biden admitted that his decision not to run again was influenced by challenges within the Democratic Party following his July debate struggles and record-low approval ratings. “I thought it was better to unify the party,” he explained. “It was the greatest honor in my life to be president of the United States, but I didn’t want to be the one who caused a party that wasn’t unified to lose an election.”
When pressed on whether Harris should seek the presidency again, Biden cautiously responded, “I think it’s a decision she should make. I think she’s competent to run again in four years.” His comments come as Harris faces scrutiny following her electoral loss, raising questions about her political future.
Reporter’s Pardon Question Leaves Biden Stunned
During the session, Joe Biden appeared visibly surprised when a reporter asked if he would consider pardoning himself, a topic that has sparked debates among legal scholars. Biden, rejecting the premise outright, responded, “For myself? What would I pardon myself for? No, I have no contemplation of pardoning myself for anything. I didn’t do anything wrong.”
The issue of pardons has gained renewed attention as Trump continues to face legal challenges, including a recent sentencing for 34 felony counts in a hush-money case. Biden’s stance on self-pardons could further complicate discussions about potential “preemptive pardons” aimed at addressing Trump’s influence. Meanwhile, Biden issued a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, citing political attacks and his son’s struggles with addiction as mitigating factors.
Miscommunication on Havana Syndrome Adds to Awkward Moments
Joe Biden faced additional challenges during the press conference when a reporter asked about the mysterious “Havana syndrome” affecting U.S. diplomats. Mishearing the question, Biden began addressing the recent ISIS-inspired attack in New Orleans, which left 14 people dead. After the reporter clarified, Biden declined to comment further on the Havana syndrome issue.
The press conference, marked by Joe Biden’s reflections on electoral dynamics and his steadfast refusal to consider a self-pardon, highlighted the complexities of his presidency and the challenges facing the Democratic Party as it navigates the post-Biden era.
Joe Biden Criticizes Meta and Elon Musk Over Misinformation Policies
President Joe Biden has taken aim at Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, expressing deep concern over their platforms’ approach to misinformation. Speaking at a press briefing, Biden condemned Meta’s shift away from fact-checking and moderation in favor of a “community notes” system, describing it as “completely contrary to everything America is about.”
Biden argued that the decision to sideline fact-checking and avoid addressing discriminatory content undermines democratic values. He also criticized Musk, referencing his acquisition of X (formerly Twitter). “The idea that a billionaire can buy a platform and say, ‘We’re not going to fact-check anything,’ is outrageous,” Biden said. These remarks underscore his administration’s ongoing concerns about the role of social media in shaping public discourse and the spread of false information.
Biden Leaves Door Open for Further Pardons Amid Trump Controversy
When asked about potential pardons or commutations, Biden did not rule out the possibility, stating that much depends on former President Donald Trump’s future statements. “It depends on some of the language and expectations that Trump broadcasts in the coming days,” Biden remarked, alluding to the former president’s polarizing rhetoric and policy stances.
Although Biden criticized Trump’s alleged efforts to enforce loyalty to his personal agenda, he remained vague about specific decisions. “There’s still consideration of some folks, but no decision has been made,” he added. Biden’s cautious comments reflect the delicate balance he seeks to maintain while addressing Trump’s influence on the political landscape.
Biden Reflects on Economic Legacy and Promises Visibility Post-Presidency
As his presidency nears its end, Biden highlighted his administration’s economic achievements, contrasting them with Trump’s proposals for extending tax cuts for the wealthy. “We fundamentally changed the economic policy of this country after decades of trickle-down economics that primarily benefited those at the very top,” Biden stated. He touted his administration’s focus on growing the economy “from the middle out and the bottom up,” emphasizing its success in benefiting everyday Americans.
In response to a question about his post-presidency plans, Biden chuckled and assured the press that he would not adopt a “George W. Bush model” of staying out of the public eye. “I’m not going to be out of sight, out of mind,” he said, signaling his intention to remain engaged in political discourse even after leaving office.
