NEW YORK — In a candid discussion, former President Joe Biden addressed the 2024 election outcomes and the current political climate, revealing a mix of personal accountability and insights into societal challenges. Speaking on “The View” during an interview, Biden claimed responsibility for Donald Trump’s success last fall.
Reflecting on Kamala Harris’ loss, he pointed to elements of sexism and racism as contributing factors. Biden expressed surprise at how gender and race influenced the political landscape, highlighting the narrative that questioned a woman of mixed race leading the nation. Despite this, he acknowledged, “I was in charge, and he won, so I take responsibility.”
Since his departure from the White House, Biden has remained largely removed from national politics, allowing a new generation to lead the Democratic Party. He maintains communication with Harris, offering her guidance though not publicly sharing specific advice. Suggesting her continued involvement in politics, he stated, “She’s got a difficult decision to make about what she’s going to do. I hope she stays engaged.”
Biden also addressed concerns regarding his cognitive health, dismissing worries spurred by a less-than-stellar debate showing last June. He reflected on pressure from Democratic leaders to exit the race, clarifying his withdrawal was aimed at protecting party unity. “The only reason I got out of the race was because I didn’t want to have a divided Democratic Party,” he asserted, recognizing leadership concerns despite broader party backing.
Polls, however, suggested otherwise; a notable fraction of Democrats questioned his viability. In early 2022, only 48% supported his reelection bid, a figure declining to 37% by February 2023. As the debate fallout settled, almost two-thirds preferred Biden step aside.
The interview marked his first public appearance with former first lady Jill Biden since their Washington departure. She denied claims of insulating her husband from scrutiny due to his age, labeling such criticisms as hurtful. “It was very hurtful especially from some of our so-called friends,” she noted, defending their transparency. “I was with Joe day and night … and I did not create a cocoon around him,” she affirmed. “You saw him in the Oval Office. You saw him making speeches. He wasn’t hiding somewhere.”
The conversation then shifted to Trump’s presidency, with Biden lambasting his performance, stating, “He’s had the worst 100 days any president has ever had.” In response, White House communications director Steven Cheung vigorously defended Trump, countering, “Joe Biden is a complete disgrace to this country and the office he occupied.” Cheung further criticized Biden’s mental acumen and handling of the interview, suggesting, “He has clearly lost all mental faculties and his handlers thought it’d be a good idea for him to do an interview and incoherently mumble his way through every answer. Sadly, this feels like abuse.”
Through this interview, Biden offered a blend of accountability, personal validation, and political critique, reigniting discussion around his tenure and the current political environment.