Biden declares that the decision to run for re-election is ultimately up to the American people while stating that he will not seek another term.

On Wednesday night, President Biden spoke to the country for the first time since announcing on Sunday that he would not seek re-election.

Since his inauguration, he has mentioned his accomplishments, including fighting COVID-19 and attempting to revive the economy from what he referred to as the "greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression."

Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor, but later stated that the election outcome is ultimately in the hands of the "American people."

"In a few months, the American people will decide on the future of America. I have made my choice and expressed my views. Thank you, Vice President Kamala Harris, for being an experienced, tough, and capable leader who has been a great partner to me and a leader for our country," Biden said from the White House.

"The decision is now yours, the American people. As you make that choice, recall the words of Benjamin Franklin displayed on my wall in the Oval Office, alongside the statues of Dr. King, Rosa Parks, and Cesar Chavez."

Biden, despite facing criticism over his physical appearance and mental acuity following the first presidential debate, did not disclose any personal reasons for his decision to withdraw.

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

To unite our nation, I have decided that the best course of action is to pass the torch to a new generation. Although there was a time and place for long years of experience in public life, it is now time for new voices, fresh voices, and specifically younger voices to take the lead.

"In the following six months, my primary focus will be on fulfilling my duties as president. This entails reducing expenses for working families, expanding our economy, safeguarding our individual liberties and civil rights, including the right to vote and the right to make choices. I will also continue to condemn hate and extremism, emphasizing that such acts have no place in America. Furthermore, I will use my platform to advocate for the safety of our children from gun violence and the preservation of our planet from the climate crisis, which poses an existential threat."

It appears that Harris will be the presumed Democratic candidate to run against Trump in the general election this fall, as Biden has secured the required votes to win the delegates for re-election.