President Joe Biden refuted the notion that his decision to seek re-election would pave the way for a potential win by President-elect Donald Trump in 2024. Biden, speaking to reporters at the White House, expressed confidence in his ability to defeat Trump in a hypothetical rematch, as well as Vice President Kamala Harris’s potential to do the same.
Biden, aged 82, recalled his decision to withdraw from the race following a challenging debate against Trump, which raised concerns among Democrats about his electability. Despite believing he could have triumphed over Trump, Biden emphasized the importance of party unity, stating it was a priority for him not to jeopardize Democratic chances in the election.
Addressing Trump’s calls for retribution against his perceived adversaries, Biden hinted at the possibility of issuing pre-emptive pardons to those targeted by the outgoing president. He denounced the notion of using the presidency to seek retribution, labeling it as “outrageous,” while affirming that he was deliberating on the matter, but had yet to make a final decision.
When questioned about the prospect of granting himself a pre-emptive pardon, Biden dismissed the idea, asserting his innocence by stating, “I didn’t do anything wrong.” Throughout his time in office, Biden opted for limited engagement with the press, but on this occasion, he engaged with reporters, addressing a range of issues.
On the topic of imposing new sanctions on Russian oil, Biden acknowledged the potential impact on gas prices, estimating a modest increase of three to four cents per gallon. He highlighted the broader implications these sanctions could have on the Russian economy, underscoring their significance in response to Russia’s actions.
Biden’s decision to cancel a planned trip to Italy in order to oversee the federal response to wildfires in California was explained as a prioritization of his duties as president. Expressing regret over missing an opportunity to meet with Pope Francis at the Vatican, Biden emphasized the importance of his presence in Washington during a critical time.
As he navigated various challenges and decisions, Biden’s interactions with the press offered insights into his perspectives and priorities. The nuanced discussions surrounding potential pardons, international relations, and domestic crises underscored the complex and multifaceted nature of his role as President of the United States.
The detailed exchange between Biden and the press provided a glimpse into the decision-making processes and considerations at the highest levels of government, shedding light on the administration’s approach to key issues both at home and abroad.
