Following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he would be withdrawing from the presidential race, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended his well wishes for the U.S. leader. President Biden, in an open letter on July 21, expressed his decision to focus solely on his responsibilities as president for the remainder of his term.
Mr. Albanese commended President Biden for his ongoing dedication to his role as the U.S. leader, emphasizing the strength of the Australia-U.S. Alliance in upholding democratic values, international security, economic prosperity, and climate action.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong also took to social media to express gratitude to President Biden, highlighting his strong friendship with Australia and his commitment to shared goals of peace and prosperity.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton thanked President Biden for his leadership in launching the AUKUS defense pact, acknowledging his service and dedication to strengthening the alliance between the two countries.
Meanwhile, while recovering from COVID-19 and in isolation, President Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to run for president, citing her as the best decision he made as the party nominee in 2020. He called on Democrats to unite in support of Harris in the upcoming election against Republican candidate and former President Donald Trump.
In response, Vice President Harris expressed her gratitude for President Biden’s endorsement and pledged to earn and win the party’s nomination. She echoed his call for unity within the Democratic party to secure victory in the election.
President Trump swiftly reacted to the news, expressing his longstanding belief that President Biden was not fit to serve. President Biden took office as the 46th U.S. president in 2021.