In a poignant farewell address delivered Wednesday from the Oval Office, President Joe Biden reflected on his legacy, cautioned against emerging threats to democracy, and extended wishes for the success of the incoming Trump administration.
Biden raised alarms about what he described as a growing oligarchy in America, driven by the consolidation of “extreme wealth, power, and influence.” He asserted that this shift jeopardizes democratic values and equality. “Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedoms, and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead,” Biden warned.
The president was particularly critical of social media platforms, referencing their abandonment of fact-checking and emphasizing the dangers posed by misinformation. “Social media is giving up on fact-checking. The truth is smothered by lies told for power and for profit,” Biden said, appearing to address recent changes at Meta and Elon Musk’s X platform.
Biden also highlighted artificial intelligence as a double-edged sword, calling it “the most consequential technology of our time.” While acknowledging AI’s transformative potential, he cautioned, “Without safeguards, artificial intelligence could spawn new threats to our rights, our way of life, to our privacy, how we work, and how we protect our nation.”
The president took pride in his administration’s achievements, citing consistent job growth, reduced prescription drug costs, and clean energy investments. “We emerged stronger, more prosperous, and more secure,” Biden said, reflecting on overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic and economic challenges.
Biden also celebrated a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, noting it as a potential legacy achievement. “Much of the agreement will be implemented by the incoming administration,” he said.
Striking a personal note, Biden reflected on his five decades in public service. “Nowhere else on Earth could a kid with a stutter from modest beginnings” rise to serve as vice president and president, he said.
Looking ahead, Biden confirmed he would remain active post-presidency. “I’m not going to be out of sight or out of mind,” he told reporters last week.
The Bidens plan to retreat briefly to California following the inauguration, though wildfire threats may alter their travel.
Watch the full address here.
