Biden Refused to Give Up, Stated His Intention to Stay Before Eventually Dropping Out for the Sake of Democracy

Despite his poor debate performance, President Biden remained steadfast about his re-election prospects and declared that he was "not going anywhere" before abruptly ending his campaign.

On Wednesday, Biden made his first public statement since announcing on Sunday that he would not run for president in 2024.

The president stated that he believes his leadership, record, and vision for America's future warrant a second term. However, he emphasized that nothing, not even personal ambition, can hinder the preservation of democracy.

Therefore, I believe the best course of action is to pass on the leadership to a new generation. This will bring unity to our nation. Although there was a time when extensive experience in public life was necessary, now is the time for fresh, younger voices to take the lead.

After tweeting about suspending his 2024 campaign on July 21, Biden later addressed the nation.

As more Democrat lawmakers publicly urged Biden to step down and the party's leadership reportedly tried to convince him he couldn't win in November's election against Trump, an unprecedented announcement was made.

On July 16, Biden was diagnosed with COVID-19 after a series of interviews that did not convince Democratic politicians and voters of his ability to serve another four years.

In the weeks leading up to his withdrawal, Biden consistently emphasized his dedication to winning re-election, despite intense pressure from Democratic colleagues, Hollywood stars, pundits, and major donors.

Biden frequently informed his supporters that he had no intention of passing on the leadership.

"What will Joe do? Will he remain in the race or withdraw? What will he do?" Biden posed to a crowd in Madison, Wisconsin, on July 5. "My response is clear. I am running and will triumph again."

"I am not going anywhere," Biden stated on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" three days later. "I wouldn't be running if I didn't believe I am the best candidate to defeat Trump in 2024."

Biden rejected the notion that his party would replace him.

In a July 5 interview, George Stephanopoulos questioned Biden about the possibility of fellow Democrats urging him to withdraw, which ultimately occurred.

"They're not going to do that," Biden chuckled.

"You're sure?" Stephanopoulos asked.

""If the Lord Almighty instructed me to exit the race, I would do so, but He hasn't," Biden stated."

On July 11, Biden privately stated that "it was not going to happen" when speculating about the possibility of being replaced at the Democratic convention.

The next day, Biden declared that he had secured the party's nomination due to the support of the voters, not anyone else.

"You, the voters, made the decision, not the press, pundits, insiders, or donors. I'm not going anywhere," Biden stated.

Biden has since backed Vice President Kamala Harris to succeed him on the ticket.