Biden: Dropping out of re-election to unite Democratic Party

US President Joe Biden has announced that his decision not to run in the next presidential election was made to unite the Democratic Party, backing Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming race. "I've decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation. That's the best way to unite our nation. You know, there is a time and a place for long years of experience in public life. There's also a time and a place for new voices, fresh voices, yes, younger voices, and that time and place is now," Biden stated in a speech to the American people from the White House late Wednesday. "Over the next six months, I'll be focused on doing my job as president. That means I'll continue to lower costs for hardworking families, grow our economy. I'll keep defending our personal freedoms and our civil rights, from the right to vote to the right to choose," he added. "America is at an inflection point, one of those rare moments in history when the decisions we make now determine our fate of our nation and the world for decades to come. America is going to have to choose between moving forward or backward, between hope and hate." Biden listed some of his legislative accomplishments during his current term and mentioned the country's stance on various international issues, underlining his commitment to maintaining security and stability in the Middle East and around the world. He went on to say, "I'm going to keep working to end the war in Gaza, bring home all the hostages and bring peace and security to the Middle East and end this war." Regarding Harris, he said, "I would like to thank our great vice-president, Kamala Harris. She's experienced. She's tough, she's capable. She's been an incredible partner to me and the leader for our country. Now the choice is up to you, the American people." Biden is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Thursday to "discuss developments in Gaza and progress towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal," as stated by White House Press Secretary Karin e Jean-Pierre. Last Sunday, Biden announced his withdrawal from the November presidential election and endorsed Harris as the Democratic Party's candidate to challenge the Republican nominee, former US President Donald Trump. Source: Kuwait News Agency