On Sunday, Jan. 15, President Joe Biden shared his last remarks as the country’s leader from the Oval Office. Unlike most before him, Biden did not spend his time summing up his term. Instead, he chose to issue warnings about the future and changes to the government moving forward.
He began by announcing that a ceasefire and hostage agreement between Hamas and Israel had been reached earlier that day. Immediately following, the former president recounted the nation’s history, discussing the Statue of Liberty and America’s foundation being laid by diverse individuals uniting.
The president also commented on his administration’s accomplishments during his four-year term and sent hope to upcoming President Trump and his administration.
“I’m so proud of how much we’ve accomplished together for the American people, and I wish the incoming administration success. Because I want America to succeed.” – President Joe Biden
He then changed pace, warning Americans about the rise of a “tech-industrial complex” and shared concerns of the concentration of power among a few extremely wealthy individuals. Which echoes former president, Dwight D. Eisenhower, who once warned of a “military-industrial complex” in 1961.
“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,” the president warned.
Biden continued to warn the American people about artificial intelligence, social media and that now it is more important than ever for the people to govern.
He closed his 17-minute speech by sharing his gratitude for his administration, his family and Vice President Kamala Harris.
“My eternal thanks to you, the American people. After 50 years of public service, I give you my word, I still believe in the idea for which this nation stands — a nation where the strength of our institutions and the character of our people matter and must endure. Now it’s your turn to stand guard. May you all be the keeper of the flame. May you keep the faith. I love America. You love it, too. God bless you all, and may God protect our troops. Thank you for this great honor.” – President Joe Biden
California Representative and Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi shared her opinions on the speech, writing on X, “President Bident delivered his farewell address to a nation that is stronger because of his leadership.”
Former president Barack Obama also shared on X, “Four years ago, in the middle of a pandemic, we needed a leader with the character to put politics aside and do what was right. That’s what [President Biden] did.”
However, Ryan Cunningham, the President of College Republicans at UNG, shared his thoughts on President Biden’s farewell address saying, “I believe his tone was one of a fearmonger. Talking about tech companies rising and getting rid of fact checkers stating that, ‘the truth is smothered by lies’ as well as the previously mentioned rise of an oligarchy in our government today.”
