Joe Biden claims he was 'confident' about beating 'loser' Donald Trump if he had stayed in race

WASHINGTON, DC: President Joe Biden addressed the decision behind his decision to step down from the 2024 presidential race during an appearance on 'The View' on Wednesday, September 25.

In his first interview since announcing his decision in July, Biden made it clear that external pressure was not the driving force behind his choice. 

Joe Biden maintains confidence in beating Donald Trump

Joe Biden also maintained confidence in his ability to have defeated former president Donald Trump if he had stayed in the race.

Biden rejected the notion that public pressure influenced his decision, stating, "I never fully believed the assertions that somehow there was this overwhelming reluctance of my running again. I didn’t sense that," Fox News noted. 

Despite speculation that polling was a factor, Biden insisted he was within the range of winning.

"The fact of the matter is my polling was about, you know, we were always within range of beating this guy," he said. He also downplayed the impact of polling differences, asserting that he was never far behind in the race.

When asked directly if he believed he would have won if he had remained in the race, Biden affirmed, “I was confident I would beat Trump.” He also referred to the former president as a “loser.”

Joe Biden discusses his relationship with Nancy Pelosi

Joe Biden’s decision to step down was reportedly influenced by many prominent Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

However, when asked about their current relationship, Biden responded that it was “fine,” indicating no lasting tension.

The president acknowledged that there were individuals who wanted him to step aside to allow a new generation of leaders to emerge.

“There are some folks who wanted to see me step aside so they have a chance to move on,” Biden said, but firmly denied being forced out of the race, stating, "I stepped down because I started thinking about it."

Joe Biden praises Kamala Harris and reflects on his own presidency

Throughout the interview, Joe Biden praised Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her “bright,” “tough,” and “smart as hell.”

He expressed his confidence in her abilities and leadership. 

Reflecting on his time as president, Biden shared that he is "at peace" with his decision to step down, reiterating that he always saw himself as a “transition president.”

He said it was an “honor” to serve as president but noted, “I love my country more.”