Biden Reflects on Potential 2024 Election Against Trump

In a revealing interview with USA Today, US President Joe Biden expressed his belief that he would have emerged victorious against Donald Trump in the November election. The 82-year-old president reflected on the challenges of another four-year term, acknowledging, “So far, so good. But who knows what I'll be like when I'm 86?”

Concerns Surrounding Age and Leadership

Biden's thoughts come as Democrats grapple with concerns surrounding his age and whether he could effectively lead the nation for another term. Despite these uncertainties, he remained optimistic about his chances against Trump, stating, “Based on polling, I believed I had the best chance of beating him. But I also wasn't looking to be president when I was 85, 86 years old.”

Discussion of Pre-emptive Pardons

In addition to discussing his potential candidacy, Biden hinted at the possibility of pre-emptive pardons for notable figures who opposed Trump, such as former congresswoman Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci. He claimed to have conveyed his thoughts on these pardons directly to Trump during their Oval Office meeting after the 2020 election. “I tried to make it clear that there was no need, and it was counterintuitive for his interest to go back and try to settle scores,” Biden revealed, mentioning that Trump appeared receptive to his comments.

Biden's Economic Record and Media Restrictions

Biden also noted that his decision regarding pardons would depend on Trump’s cabinet choices if he were to run for office again. Interestingly, he shared that Trump had complimented him on his economic record during their encounter, asserting, “He thought I was leaving with a good record.”

Press Conference and Communication Challenges

While Biden's remarks illuminate his mindset post-election, the media landscape surrounding him has been notably restrictive, with the White House controlling access and declining to hold formal press conferences since he withdrew from the race on July 21. This interview marked his only exit discussion with a print outlet.

Controversial Pardon of Hunter Biden

Biden also defended his controversial pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, who faced legal troubles, including tax evasion and illegal firearm purchase charges. Despite prior assertions that he would refrain from such actions, Biden took this step, drawing mixed reactions from within his own party as frustration grows over his decision to remain in the presidential race despite mounting age-related scrutiny.

Party Dynamics and Leadership Future

Critics, including high-profile Democrats like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have suggested that the party might have fared better in the election had Biden exited the race sooner. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Biden’s reflections raise essential questions about the future of leadership within the Democratic Party and the potential implications for upcoming elections.