Jill Biden Makes Her Move as Joe Biden Out Of Race
First Lady Jill Biden is beginning what she calls "a long, heartfelt goodbye" as she reflects on her next steps following President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of the 2024 race. A Washington Post article offers a touching look at how both Jill and Joe Biden are navigating their final months in the White House as Vice President Kamala Harris prepares to take on former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
The Washington Post describes Jill Biden’s recent Democratic National Convention speech as a symbol of how she has approached her role as First Lady, focusing on the president and supporting those who will follow him. It was a moment that marked the beginning of a farewell, though not her final campaign speech.
Jill Biden has always been a part of Joe Biden's public life, a journey that started when he was a senator. Despite her initial hesitation to embrace a public life, Jill found her own path, teaching for over 40 years, including her tenure as Second Lady and First Lady.
In June, she faced personal challenges as her son Hunter Biden's legal troubles coincided with official duties, traveling between Paris and Wilmington, Delaware. Jill Biden was a constant source of support for her family, balancing her role as a public figure and a mother during difficult times.
Following Joe Biden’s announcement that he would not run for president in 2024, Jill Biden released her own statement in late July, expressing gratitude to everyone who had supported her family during Joe's presidency. She also voiced her full support for Vice President Kamala Harris, who had secured enough delegates to be officially nominated by the Democratic Party. In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Jill Biden thanked those who stood by her husband and encouraged the nation to now put their trust in Harris.
The post was shared just minutes after President Biden delivered his first address to the nation following his decision to withdraw from the 2024 race. In his speech, President Biden explained that he was stepping aside to defend democracy, expressing his love for the country and reaffirming his commitment to supporting Harris.
Reflecting on his presidency, Biden said: "I revere this office, but I love my country more. It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president." He emphasized that the nation is at a critical juncture, where the choices made now will shape its future for decades to come. He urged Americans to choose hope over hate, unity over division, and uphold the core values of honesty, decency, and democracy.
In his speech, Biden called for a renewed sense of national unity, reminding the public that character in public life still matters and that the strength of the country lies in its people.