President Biden is set to deliver a farewell speech on Wednesday, wrapping up a political career that spans five decades. Just days before stepping down from an office he has long cherished yet is leaving reluctantly, he plans to summarize his achievements and legacy. The White House has been tight-lipped about the content of his speech, scheduled for 8 p.m. Eastern, but his recent actions suggest a push to be remembered as a transformative president who stabilized domestic politics and bolstered America’s global leadership. In a letter published ahead of his speech, Biden declared the nation ‘stronger, more prosperous, and more secure’ than four years ago. He reflected on his over fifty years of service, expressing gratitude for the love and support he has received from the American people. Despite his aspirations, the backdrop of his departure is not one of popularity; he’s handing over the reins to a successor he has publicly criticized as unfit. The venue of his final address, the Oval Office’s Resolute Desk, serves as a stark reminder of the unconventional path to his exit. His last prime-time address from that desk lasted a mere 11 minutes, marking his withdrawal from the presidential race under internal party pressure amidst concerns about his age and fitness for another term.
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