President Biden Is Bowing Out After One Term. He’s Not the First.
After just one term in office, President Joe Biden has announced that he will not seek reelection in the upcoming presidential race. This decision comes as a surprise to many, as Biden had previously hinted at running for a second term. However, he is not the first president to bow out after just one term.
In fact, several presidents throughout history have chosen not to seek reelection for a variety of reasons. Some, like Franklin Pierce and James Buchanan, faced high levels of unpopularity and were unlikely to win reelection. Others, like Rutherford B. Hayes and James K. Polk, simply chose not to seek another term for personal reasons.
President Biden’s decision to step down after one term may have been influenced by a number of factors. The challenges of the presidency, especially in the face of a global pandemic and political polarization, can take a toll on even the most seasoned politicians. Additionally, at 82 years old, Biden may have decided that he no longer has the energy or desire to run for another term.
Biden’s announcement has left many in the political sphere speculating about who will run for the Democratic nomination in the next election. Potential candidates include Vice President Kamala Harris, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Regardless of who ultimately decides to run, Biden’s decision to step down after one term will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the upcoming presidential race.
While it is not uncommon for presidents to bow out after one term, Biden’s decision still comes as a surprise to many. His presidency has been marked by a focus on unity and healing in a time of deep division in the country. Whether or not his successor will be able to continue this work remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: President Biden’s decision to step down after one term will leave a lasting impact on American politics.