In an unprecedented decision, Joe Biden has announced his resignation as president of the United States effective at noon on Jan. 20, 2025.
Biden becomes one of the few sitting American presidents who opted not to seek a second term. The moment is unique in U.S. political history because Biden’s decision comes so close to the next presidential election and after he had secured the Democratic Party nomination earlier this year.
Biden joins three other 20th century American presidents: Lyndon B. Johnson, Harry S. Truman and Calvin Coolidge in deciding against running for a second term. However, all assumed office upon the death of the incumbent, so actually served more than a single term. Truman served two terms less 82 days.
