NEW YORK (AP) — Former President
Joe Biden
says he’s responsible for
Donald Trump’s
success last autumn, however, he credited
Kamala Harris
‘loss, at least in some measure, due to sexism and racism.’
In a recent interview on ABC’s “The View” held on Thursday, Biden, who stepped down from office in January, discussed the Democrats’ poor performance in the 2024 elections, worries regarding his age, and comments on Trump’s polarizing leadership. At 82 years old, the Democratic former president mentioned that he deliberately refrained from making public statements until recently to avoid intervening for over 100 days since Trump took office, adhering to what is usually observed after a presidential transition.
Asked about the last election, Biden said he was surprised by the role that he gender and race played in the contest.
“They went the sexist route,” Biden said of criticism that “a woman couldn’t lead the country and a woman of mixed race.”
He stated, “I was responsible for his victory, hence I am accountable.”
Since departing the White House, Biden has mostly withdrawn from national politics.
It’s anticipated that he won’t have a key position in Democratic matters as the party shifts focus elsewhere.
new generation of leadership
, even though he admitted on Thursday that he has kept up frequent communication with Harris and has provided advice on her political aspirations.
“She has a tough choice ahead regarding her next steps. I hope she remains involved,” Biden stated, choosing not to disclose his particular guidance.
Biden dismissed worries regarding potential cognitive decline after a poor showing at a debate held last June. Additionally, he chose not to comment on fellow Democrats who discreetly urged him to step down from his bid for presidency.
The sole reason I withdrew from the race was to avoid dividing the Democratic Party,” he stated, noting that although the general party wasn’t swayed by worries regarding his age after the “disastrous” debate, “the Democratic leadership along with several key donors had reservations.
The appearance on Thursday was also notable as it represented Biden’s first joint interview alongside his predecessor, the former First Lady.
Jill Biden
Since departing Washington, she dismissed those who thought she built a protective shield around her husband during his tenure to safeguard him from inquiries regarding his age.
“It was particularly painful, especially coming from some of what we call our friends,” she stated regarding the criticism.
I spent every moment with Joe, day and night… and I didn’t isolate him,” she went on. “You witnessed him in the Oval Office. You watched him deliver speeches. He wasn’t concealed anywhere.
At the same time, the ex-president didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts when the discussion shifted towards Trump’s effectiveness as president.
“He hasn’t experienced anything but the toughest 100 days for any president,” Biden stated.
Steve Peoples from The Associated Press
