US President Joe Biden has spoken from the Oval Office in the White House, addressing his decision to not run for re-election.
“My fellow Americans, I’m speaking to you tonight from behind the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, in this sacred space,” Mr Biden said.
“I’m surrounded by portraits of extraordinary American presidents.
“Thomas Jefferson wrote the immortal words that guide this nation. George Washington, who showed us presidents are not kings. Abraham Lincoln, who implored us to reject malice. Franklin Roosevelt, who inspired us to reject fear.
“I revere this office, but I love my country more. It’s been the honour of my life to serve as your president. But in the defence of democracy which is at stake, I think it’s more important than any title.
“I draw strength and I find joy in working for the American people. But this sacred task of perfecting our union is not about me.
“It’s about you. Your families, your futures.
“I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, and my vision for America’s future all merited a second term.
“But nothing, nothing can come in the way of saving our democracy. That includes personal ambition. So I’ve decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation.”
It is Mr Biden’s first public address since his announcement via social media on Sunday that he had ended his bid for a second term and was endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.
Biden has kept a low profile since last week when he came down with a COVID-19 infection and went into isolation at his private residence in the state of Delaware.
More to come…
– With AAP