Joe Biden asserts he could have defeated Donald Trump in the 2024 election, attributing his withdrawal to other factors, not cognitive decline.
Former President Joe Biden has criticized Donald Trump’s initial 100 days in office. He also refuted claims of cognitive decline, which many believed led to his decision to end his presidential campaign.
In an interview with ABC News, Biden commented on Trump’s early performance, stating, “He’s had the worst 100 days any president’s ever had. And I would not say honesty has been his strong point.” Biden’s remarks follow the traditional three-month period where political opponents typically refrain from heavy criticism of a new president.
Biden also expressed his disappointment, though not surprise, at Kamala Harris’ defeat, suggesting her race and gender played a role. “They went the sexist route,” he said. “I’ve never seen quite as successful and consistent a campaign undercutting the notion that a woman couldn’t lead the country – and a woman of mixed race.”
When asked if he believed he could have won against Trump in 2024, Biden stated, “I do.” He suggested the 2024 election “wasn’t a slam dunk.” Trump achieved tight victories in key states such as Michigan, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Arizona, and Wisconsin.
Addressing reports about his alleged cognitive decline during his final year as president, Biden firmly denied them. “They are wrong,” Biden stated. “There is nothing to sustain that… I said when I got out of the race, I was still going to be president. I think I did a pretty damn good job the last six months.”
Speculation regarding Biden’s fitness for office arose months before the election, fueled by frequent gaffes. Concerns intensified after a poor debate performance against Trump in June 2024.
Despite initially resisting, Biden withdrew from the presidential race reportedly due to pressure from Democratic leaders, resulting in Vice President Harris becoming the nominee. She subsequently lost the general election to Trump, with a 312 to 226 Electoral College vote.
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