Outgoing US President Joe Biden said in an interview with USA Today that he could have defeated Donald Trump in the November presidential election if he had not withdrawn from the race and supported Vice President Kamala Harris. Biden, 82, also admitted that he “didn't intend to be president at 85, 86.”
When asked by USA Today journalist Susan Page if he could have won last year's November presidential election, Joe Biden he replied that “it's impertinent to say that, but I think so, based on the polls.” Outgoing president USA However, he did not explain what survey results he was referring to, USA Today reported.
Biden, 82, was also asked if he felt capable of holding the highest office in the White House for another four years, but said he “didn't know.” At the same time, he added that he “did not intend to be president at the age of 85, 86.”
– I talked (already earlier – editor) about passing the baton. But I don't know. Who knows (how I will feel – editor's note)? So far so good. But who knows who I will be when I'm 86?” he said rhetorically.
Joe Biden will leave office on January 20 PAP/EPA/SHAWN THEW/POOL
Biden's first public statement
According to the Washington Post, the interview with USA Today is Biden's first public statement in which he stated that he could defeat Donald Trump. Biden believes that neither Harris nor her election campaign should be blamed for the loss, this newspaper reported, citing statements by the US president's associates.
Biden announced his resignation from the presidential election on July 21 and at the same time supported Harris. At that time polls pre-election results indicated that he was losing his advantage over Trump. The decision to withdraw from the race for the White House was also influenced by the poor performance of the Democratic Party candidate in the June presidential debate.
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