Elections 2024 live: Biden calls decision to drop out of presidential race a ‘defense of democracy’ in Oval Office speech

President Joe Biden gave his first nationwide address since dropping out of the 2024 presidential race.

During his remarks, Biden praised vice president Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee, whom he has already endorsed.

“I’d like to thank our great vice president Kamala Harris,” he said. “She’s experienced. She’s tough. She’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me, and a leader for our country.”

The Democratic campaign appears re-energized since Biden pulled out of the race on Sunday, with Harris quickly securing support from more than 64 percent of party delegates.

Harris has already hit the campaign trail. On Wednesday, the vice president spoke to attendees at the biannual Zeta Phi Beta sorority national convention in Indianapolis.

In her remarks, she warned potential voters about the dangers of another Donald Trump presidency.

“Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion and rule of law, or a country of chaos, fear and hate?” she asked.

President Joe Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office on Wednesday evening (24 July). It was his first speech since announcing he was ending his 2024 reelection bid.

“I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, my vision for America’s future, all merited a second term,” Biden said. “But nothing, nothing, can come in the way of saving our democracy.”

The president reiterated the importance of “passing the torch” to a new generation and praised Kamala Harris, who he has endorsed to take his place in the race.

Watch his speech here.

President Joe Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office on Wednesday evening (24 July). It was his first speech since announcing he was ending his 2024 reelection bid. “I believe my record as