Politics
Biden Delivers Farewell Address, Reflects on Key Achievements
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden delivered his farewell address to the nation from the White House on Friday, reflecting on his administration’s accomplishments and urging unity as the country prepares for a new chapter under President-elect Donald Trump.
In his speech, Biden highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and significant legislative wins such as the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act. “History will be far kinder to Joe Biden than you think,” he said, addressing critics who have questioned his legacy.
The ceasefire deal, brokered through Biden’s three-phase proposal, secured the release of 33 Israeli and American hostages and laid the groundwork for Gaza‘s reconstruction. While acknowledging the role of Trump’s envoy, Biden emphasized that the agreement was finalized under his administration’s leadership.
Biden also pointed to the economic recovery as a cornerstone of his presidency. Unemployment stands at 4.1 percent, the lowest at the end of a presidential term since Bill Clinton‘s administration. GDP growth has hovered near 3 percent, and the stock market has reached record highs. “Our recovery is the envy of the industrialized world,” Biden said.
The American Rescue Plan, which provided $1,400 stimulus checks to most households and expanded the Child Tax Credit, played a pivotal role in reducing childhood poverty by half. Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act capped insulin costs at $35 for seniors and introduced a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug expenses under Medicare, benefiting 19 million Americans.
Biden also touted the bipartisan infrastructure deal, which aims to modernize roads, bridges, and broadband networks while creating high-paying union jobs. “What this deal set in motion is monumental for the country,” he said.
Other notable achievements include the CHIPS and Science Act, which bolstered U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, and the PACT Act, which expanded benefits for veterans exposed to toxins. Biden also highlighted the confirmation of 235 federal judges and historic investments in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Despite his accomplishments, Biden acknowledged the challenges ahead. “I may not have always been perfect, but I put our country over myself time after time,” he said. “Fare thee well, and Godspeed.”
As the nation transitions to a new administration, Biden’s legacy remains a topic of debate. While some critics argue his policies fell short, others believe his contributions will be remembered as transformative. “The minimization of what he’s done for this country wildly betrays the reality of his legacy,” said Jessica Tarlov, a Fox News contributor.