Biden’s Legacy and the Election Result A Reversal of Fate

Biden’s legacy in his inaugural address, following Donald Trump’s departure, Joe Biden proclaimed, democracy has triumphed. Nearly four years later, however, voters delivered a stark rebuke, returning the White House to Trump, a leader Biden despises. The election results tarnish Biden’s legacy, exposing the disconnect between his agenda and the electorate’s desires, undermining his efforts to unite the nation and heal its “soul.”

Biden’s Commitment to Peaceful Transition

At the White House on Thursday, Biden reiterated his commitment to a peaceful transfer of power to Trump. This followed a divisive election in which his endorsed successor, Kamala Harris, suffered a decisive loss. “The struggle for the soul of America has always been ongoing and remains crucial today,” Biden remarked. He added, “Setbacks are inevitable, but surrender is unforgivable. The America of your dreams calls for you to rise again.”

Harris’s Defeat and Biden’s Future

Harris’s sweeping defeat raises fresh doubts about Biden’s decision to pursue re-election at 80, despite initially presenting himself as a “bridge” to a new generation. His delayed exit after a dismal June debate has relegated his presidency to a mere interruption in Trump’s dominance. “Joe Biden is responsible for this mess,” stated Matt Stoller, director of research at the American Economic Liberties Project. “He never established a clear policy direction.”

Biden’s Place in History: A Single-Term Presidency

Biden now joins Jimmy Carter in the ranks of Democratic presidents serving a single term. Carter’s 1980 loss to Ronald Reagan made him a pariah within his party, though he rehabilitated his reputation in the decades that followed. At 82, Biden has yet to reveal his post-presidential plans. This also complicates fundraising for his post-presidency, including for a library. Some Democratic donors are withholding decisions until election results become clear, with a Harris win a significant factor in their involvement.

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Family Issues and Legal Challenges

Questions linger about how Biden’s family will fare, with Republicans alleging they profited from his public service career. No illegal activities have been proven, though Biden and his family deny wrongdoing, accusing Republicans of political motivations. Trump’s Justice Department could reignite these inquiries, sparking a new round of legal challenges for Biden. In mid-December, Biden’s son Hunter faces sentencing on federal gun and tax charges, with some allies anticipating a potential pardon.

Biden’s Struggles with Communication and Approval

Biden inherited a fractured nation in 2021, reeling from a pandemic that claimed over 1.2 million lives. As health risks subsided, the nation faced unprecedented inflation and a surge in illegal border crossings. The chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan further eroded Biden’s approval ratings, casting doubt on his competence. With slim majorities in both houses, Biden secured early wins, including stimulus funding, infrastructure investments, semiconductor incentives, and policies for decarbonization and healthcare.

Unmet Expectations and Future Challenges

The White House struggled to convince Americans that Biden’s successes impacted their lives, compounded by his declining communication skills. Trump has promised to undo much of Biden’s agenda, though congressional cooperation is needed for full reversal. Some Biden-signed bills now have Republican backing, complicating efforts to fully dismantle his policies. Despite mounting signals, Biden ignored voter concerns, with 70% opposing his candidacy in April 2023, citing age as a major issue.

Reflecting on His Presidency A Transition Unfulfilled

Since his withdrawal, Biden has struggled to explain why he sought re-election in 2022. He suggested it was never a topic of significant discussion. “When I ran the first time, I saw myself as a transition president,” he reflected. “But things moved so quickly, it didn’t happen,” he added in an August CBS interview.

Biden’s legacy faces challenges, as voters’ return to Trump highlights political disconnect and division, according to wsj deals.