In a recent interview shortly before leaving office, President Joe Biden expressed uncertainty regarding his ability to serve another term, despite believing he could have secured reelection. He spoke with USA Today, revealing various insights about his presidency and the political landscape ahead.
During the conversation, Biden recounted his attempt to dissuade then-President-elect Donald Trump from targeting his political adversaries during their Oval Office meeting. He also hinted at the possibility of issuing pardons aimed at safeguarding individuals from potential backlash by the Trump administration, though he had yet to make a final decision on that matter.
When asked about his stamina to continue for an additional four years in office, the 82-year-old president replied with hesitation, indicating he was unsure about his capabilities at such an advanced age. In the interview conducted by USA Today’s Washington Bureau Chief, Susan Page, Biden reflected on his unexpected 2020 presidential run, emphasizing that his motivation stemmed from the desire to defeat Trump, rather than an ambition to hold office into his mid-80s. “I think I had the best chance of beating him,” Biden noted, while acknowledging his reluctance to pursue a long-term presidency.
He affirmed his belief in his ability to win a second term, though he characterized such a claim as presumptuous. His confidence, he said, was largely derived from polling data yet did not delve into specifics during the interview. Concerns regarding Biden’s age have lingered since his announcement for reelection, culminating in his withdrawal from the race last July after struggling in a debate against Trump. He subsequently endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, who ultimately lost to the Republican candidate.
In discussing the possibility of issuing preemptive pardons, Biden reiterated that he had not finalized any decisions. He recalled his Oval Office meeting with Trump post-election, noting his efforts to advocate against the need for settling political scores, suggesting it would be counterproductive for Trump’s interests. Biden stated that Trump primarily listened during their conversation without committing to a particular stance.
Biden expressed concerns over potential rollbacks of significant climate legislation he enacted in 2022, attributing such worries to his belief that Trump could undermine these achievements. Additionally, he criticized Trump’s insinuation linking a fatal New Year’s Day vehicle attack in New Orleans to an undocumented immigrant. The FBI has since identified the driver, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, as a U.S. citizen and Army veteran, who was ultimately killed by police following the attack that claimed 14 lives and injured nearly three dozen people.
Furthermore, Biden expressed his apprehension that many might believe Trump’s characterization of the assailant. “How do you deal with that?” he questioned, alluding to the challenge posed by a successor who is perceived as lacking in truthfulness. This highlights the ongoing complexities of the political discourse that Biden will leave behind as he steps away from his role.
