President Joe Biden made a resolute declaration on Friday that he will continue his bid for the 2024 presidential race, dismissing doubts within the Democratic Party following his recent debate performance that raised questions about his age and fitness for office.
Addressing a rally in Madison, Wisconsin, Biden reaffirmed his commitment to the race, emphasizing that he earned the nomination through the support of millions of Democratic voters across the country. He asserted, 'I’m staying in the race' in response to efforts to push him out.
Biden also took a swipe at former President Donald Trump, asserting his victory over Trump in the past and his determination to defeat him again in 2024, drawing cheers from the crowd. The president's resolve was underscored by the choice of music at the rally, with Tom Petty's 'I Won’t Back Down' playing in the background.
One voter, Jeff Martinson, shared his changed perspective after witnessing Biden's speech, noting that the president's forceful and energetic delivery at the rally allayed some of his initial concerns. While Biden exhibited vigor during his address, he did experience a few verbal slip-ups.
During the event, a rally attendee briefly displayed a sign reading 'Pass the torch, Joe,' before it was partially covered by a Biden-Harris sign. The sign-holder eventually discarded the message and remained on stage for the duration of the president's remarks.