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-Editorial
Joe Biden’s presidency, marked by historic achievements and profound challenges, is drawing to a close as Donald Trump prepares to take the oath of office on January 20, 2025. Biden’s decision to forgo seeking re-election, citing concerns about his age and mental acuity, was an extraordinary moment in modern American politics. This choice left Vice President Kamala Harris to lead the Democratic ticket, ultimately resulting in a loss to Trump in a fiercely contested election.
Biden’s presidency will be remembered for its focus on healing a nation fractured by the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing economic inequalities, and advancing progressive ideals. However, it was also a tenure defined by polarizing decisions, legislative hurdles, and controversies that shaped public opinion about his leadership.
Throughout his term, Biden championed policies aimed at benefiting working families, promoting racial and social equity, and rebuilding international alliances. His administration successfully passed key pieces of legislation, including the American Rescue Plan, which provided pandemic relief, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invested heavily in modernizing the nation’s roads, bridges, and broadband systems.
Despite these accomplishments, critics argue that Biden struggled to deliver on key promises, such as comprehensive immigration reform and voting rights legislation. His approval ratings were hampered by inflationary pressures, rising gas prices, and a perception of inefficacy in handling the U.S.-Mexico border crisis.
In December 2024, Biden’s final days in office reflected the themes of his presidency: diplomacy, justice, and symbolic gestures to cement his legacy.
Biden made a historic visit to Angola, marking his first presidential trip to sub-Saharan Africa. Meeting with President João Lourenço in Luanda, Biden emphasized U.S. support for African infrastructure development and regional security cooperation. The visit concluded with a tour of railway renovations in Lobito, showcasing American investment in modernization projects.
On December 12, Biden granted clemency to over 1,500 individuals released during the pandemic and pardoned 39 Americans convicted of non-violent offenses. This was the largest single-day clemency action in U.S. history. However, the decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, for tax and firearms charges sparked bipartisan criticism and allegations of nepotism.
Biden also commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates on December 23, continuing his administration’s progressive stance on criminal justice reform.
In a symbolic move, Biden signed legislation designating the bald eagle as the official national bird on Christmas Eve. Later, he issued a proclamation honoring former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, declaring January 9, 2025, a national day of mourning.
Biden’s administration grappled with evolving global threats during its final weeks. A classified memorandum approved on December 11 highlighted growing cooperation among adversarial nations, including Russia, North Korea, and Iran. Meanwhile, bipartisan discussions between Biden’s team and Trump’s advisers focused on Russia’s war in Ukraine, with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan reiterating the U.S. commitment to prevent nuclear rearmament in Ukraine.
These developments underscored Biden’s effort to maintain continuity in foreign policy as the administration transitioned to Trump’s leadership.
Biden’s clemency actions, particularly the pardon of his son, became a focal point of criticism. Opponents argued that this undermined his image as a champion of justice and accountability.
Domestically, Biden faced challenges in addressing inflation and crime rates, with some Americans feeling that his administration did not sufficiently tackle these pressing issues. Additionally, his handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 continued to cast a shadow over his foreign policy legacy.
Biden’s presidency also emphasized moments of national unity. On December 5, he participated in the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, symbolizing hope and renewal. His administration’s final White House holiday décor, unveiled by First Lady Jill Biden, echoed themes of inclusivity and celebration amid change.
These gestures reflected Biden’s enduring belief in the power of community and resilience in the face of adversity.
As Biden prepares to leave office, the country enters a new chapter under Donald Trump’s leadership. Trump’s return to the presidency signals a shift in policy direction, with implications for domestic and international priorities.
While Biden’s tenure faced significant hurdles, his administration’s efforts to promote progressive values, restore diplomatic relationships, and champion human rights have left an indelible mark. His decision to step aside, allowing for a generational shift in Democratic leadership, was both a testament to his humility and a reflection of the challenges facing the party.
Joe Biden’s presidency will be remembered as a time of transition and transformation. His leadership was grounded in empathy, resilience, and a vision for a united America, even as political divisions deepened.
As he leaves office, Biden’s legacy remains a subject of debate—marked by notable successes, enduring challenges, and a commitment to addressing the nation’s most pressing issues. For many, his final days symbolize the closing of one chapter and the promise of new beginnings for the United States.
