As Fox News reported, First Lady Jill Biden has expressed her support for President Joe Biden's decision to end his re-election campaign, calling it the "right call" in a recent interview.
In an exclusive conversation with ABC News, Dr. Biden shared her thoughts on the President's unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. The interview, which aired on Monday, October 21, 2024, provided insight into the couple's perspective on their political journey and future plans.
During the interview with ABC News' Deborah Roberts, the First Lady emphasized the need for change, stating, "It's time for something new." She acknowledged the significance of their time in the White House, describing it as "the honor of our lives." However, Dr. Biden also expressed readiness for a new chapter, saying, "We're starting a new journey."
The First Lady's comments come in the wake of President Biden's late July announcement that he would be ending his bid for re-election. This decision followed mounting pressure from fellow Democrats and a particularly challenging debate performance against former President Donald Trump in June.
Despite the difficulties faced during the campaign, Dr. Biden remained supportive of her husband's efforts. Following the June debate, she was heard praising the President's performance, telling him he had done a "great job" and commending his knowledge of the facts.
In her interview with ABC News, the First Lady reflected on their extensive political career, noting, "We've been in politics 50 years. I think we're ready for the new journey."
Jill Biden shared her thoughts on the transition:
I've had such a great four years. And Joe and I, I mean really it has been the honor of our lives. It'll be tough to maybe step away from it, but we're starting a new chapter of our lives. A new journey.
The June debate between President Biden and former President Trump proved to be a turning point in the campaign. Despite the First Lady's public support, the President's performance was widely criticized and led to increased calls for him to withdraw from the race.
Initially, President Biden strongly resisted these calls, asserting that he would only drop out if commanded by the "Lord Almighty." However, on July 21, he ultimately made the decision to end his re-election bid and throw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.
The First Lady has since been actively campaigning for Harris in key swing states, including Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.
During her interview on "Good Morning America," Dr. Biden expressed optimism about Vice President Harris's chances in the upcoming election against former President Trump.
She stated:
There's a lot of energy out there. Kamala Harris is going to win this, and it's going to be just another chapter for the White House.
President Biden's withdrawal from the race has opened up new possibilities for the Democratic Party and set the stage for a potentially historic election. The First Lady's candid remarks about their decision to end the re-election campaign provide insight into the personal side of political life. As they embrace this new chapter, the Bidens' legacy in American politics will undoubtedly continue to influence the nation's future.