Jill Biden acknowledges husband Joe Biden's decision to drop out of 2024 race was 'the right call'

In an interview with ABC News, Jill Biden addressed the personal and political ramifications of her husband's exit
PUBLISHED OCT 22, 2024
Over the years, Jill Biden has gained a reputation as her husband President Joe Biden’s fiercest protector (Getty Images)
Over the years, Jill Biden has gained a reputation as her husband President Joe Biden’s fiercest protector (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC: First lady Jill Biden openly discussed her husband, President Joe Biden's decision to step down from the 2024 race for re-election, calling it “the right call” in an interview with ABC News.

In what appeared to be her first public reflection on the matter, Jill addressed the personal and political ramifications of her husband's exit, offering insight into their future plans, as well as her thoughts on Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden administration’s legacy, as per New York Post.



 

Jill Biden acknowledges Joe Biden's decision to end his re-election bid

During her interview on ABC’s 'Good Morning America,' Jill Biden acknowledged the decision for President Joe Biden to end his re-election bid, which came on July 21, 2024.

With poise and grace, she shared her perspective, noting how important it was for them to move forward.

"It’s time for something new. It was the right call," said the 73-year-old first lady, clearly reflecting on the monumental decision that shifted the political landscape for the Democrats.

Jill did not shy away from discussing how emotionally challenging the decision had been, yet she highlighted the honor it was for them to serve in the White House.

“I’ve had such a great four years,” she said, looking back on her time as the first lady. “Really, it has been the honor of our lives. It’ll be tough to maybe step away from it, but we’re starting a new chapter of our lives. A new journey.”

Jill didn't just reflect on her husband’s political exit but also voiced support for Vice President Harris, who has now taken a central role as the Democratic candidate for the 2024 election.

Jill, despite past rumors of unease about Harris becoming Joe Biden’s running mate, expressed strong support for Harris, saying, “There’s a lot of energy out there. Kamala Harris is going to win this, and it’s going to be just another chapter for the White House.”

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 17: U.S. first lady Jill Biden delivers remarks during a reception to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the Rose Garden of the White House on May 17, 2022 in Washington, DC. While highlighting examples of contributions by Asian Americans to U.S. culture and history, President Joe Biden also said the country must push back again anti-Asian bias, xenophobia and harassment, which has spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Jill Biden acknowledged Joe Biden's decision to end his re-election bid during an interview with ABC News (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Jill Biden has been actively campaigning for Kamala Harris in run up to election day

Jill Biden's supportive remarks come at a critical time as Kamala Harris looks to cement her place in the upcoming election.

The first lady’s enthusiasm for Harris marks a significant show of unity within the party and addresses past whispers of tension between the two women.

Reports had surfaced during the 2020 campaign that Jill was not entirely pleased with Harris being chosen as Joe’s running mate, but her current remarks highlight a shift in their relationship.

As part of her active campaigning, Jill has been hitting the road on behalf of Harris, appearing in key swing states like Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

(Getty Images)
Jill Biden has been actively campaigning for Kamala Harris in the run-up to election day (Getty Images)

Over the years, Jill gained a reputation as her husband’s fiercest protector, often stepping in to shield President Biden from tough press situations. Her defensive stance on questions about his cognitive state or concerns about his age was often a focal point during his presidency.

Notably, she would often be seen by his side, preventing the press from posing difficult questions when he seemed vulnerable.

Despite external scrutiny, she consistently downplayed concerns regarding his age and ability to lead, cementing her role as a significant figure behind the scenes.

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