'Best way forward is to pass the torch' Joe Biden addresses US nation from the Oval Office

In a surprise move, President Joe Biden announced his decision to end his 2024 presidential campaign, citing his desire to unite the Democratic Party and pass the torch to a new generation. In a primetime address from the Oval Office, Biden, 81, said he will continue to focus on his duties as president until the end of his term in January.

Biden's decision comes after a tumultuous few weeks, during which he faced criticism over his performance in the first 2024 presidential debate against former President Donald Trump. The president, who first announced his decision to end his campaign on Sunday, July 21, said he believes his record as president, his leadership in the world, and his vision for the future all merited a second term.

However, Biden said he has come to realize that his continued candidacy would be a distraction from the party's efforts to defeat Trump in the November 2024 election. Instead, he will focus on fulfilling his duties as president for the remainder of his term and will not seek re-election.

In his address, Biden also endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, as the party's nominee for the 2024 election. Harris, 59, is 22 years younger than Biden and has been a key partner in his administration. Biden praised Harris as "experienced, tough, and capable," saying she is the best person to unite the party and defeat Trump.

Harris, who was not present at the announcement, released a statement thanking Biden for his endorsement and vowing to continue her campaign to defeat Trump. Her campaign took in more than $81 million in the 24 hours following the announcement, making it the largest 24-hour haul by any candidate in presidential history.