President Joe Biden has expressed confidence that he would have triumphed over Donald Trump if he had run for re-election. Speaking to USA TODAY in an interview, Biden suggested his ability to secure another victory was not in doubt, though he admitted concerns about the physical demands of a second term.
“I believe I could have won,” Biden said. “So far, so good. But who knows what I’m going to be when I’m 86 years old?” The president, whose tenure will end in two weeks, also discussed potential actions in his final days.
Reflecting on legacy and final decisions
Seated at the Resolute Desk with a portrait of Franklin D Roosevelt behind him, Biden spoke candidly about his hopes for how history will judge his presidency. “I hope history says that I came in and had a plan to restore the economy and reestablish America’s leadership in the world,” he said. “And I hope it records that I did it with honesty and integrity.”
He reflected on navigating global challenges and building international coalitions during a transformative era. “The world’s really getting smaller,” Biden observed. “What happens in Japan profoundly affects what happens in Ukraine.”
As his presidency winds down, Biden is considering a controversial move—granting preemptive pardons to figures such as Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci, who have faced threats of legal action under incoming President Trump’s administration.
“I tried to make clear that there was no need,” Biden said. “It was counterintuitive for his interest to go back and try to settle scores.”
‘Had to ask myself if I could meet physical, mental demands of another term’
When asked about his decision not to seek re-election, Biden linked it to the physical realities of the presidency. He acknowledged the toll of the role, saying, “I had to ask myself if I could meet the physical and mental demands of another four years.”
Biden also delved into his legacy, emphasising his efforts to steer the country through significant changes. “I think America is desperately needed to lead the world,” he remarked. “Who leads and tries to put together the kinds of coalitions that are international in scope if we don’t?”
