White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has corrected her initial statement on whether President Biden plans to serve all eight years of his two terms if he is re-elected in 2024. Initially, Jean-Pierre evaded the question, saying that it was up to the President to decide. However, Jean-Pierre later corrected her statement on Twitter, confirming that if re-elected, Biden would indeed serve both terms.
The question about Biden’s term plans arose after he and Vice President Kamala Harris announced their intention to run for re-election earlier in the day. Biden’s campaign released a video attacking “MAGA extremists” and emphasising his belief in the American people. The video features footage from the Jan. 6 US Capitol riot and criticises “MAGA extremists” who, he says, are “cutting Social Security,” “dictating what health care decisions women can make,” and “banning books.”
Speculation had mounted about Biden’s age and whether he would step down after serving a single term. However, Jean-Pierre’s initial response did not provide a clear answer to the question. She stated that it was up to the President to decide, and referred reporters to the campaign for any information related to the 2024 election.
Jean-Pierre later clarified her statement on Twitter, writing, “As you know, we take following the law serious. So I wanted to be sure that I didn’t go into 2023 more than is appropriate under the law. But I can confirm that if re-elected, [Biden] would serve all 8 years.”
Biden’s campaign faces a clear path to the Democratic nomination and could face a possible rematch against former President Donald Trump. While Trump maintains a substantial lead in the Republican primary, he has yet to announce a running mate.
In the video, Biden stresses his belief in the American people and the values that he believes make America great. “This is not a time to be complacent. That’s why I’m running for re-election. Because I know America. I know we are good and decent people,” he says.
Biden’s statement and Jean-Pierre’s correction provide clarity on the President’s plans for his potential second term. The announcement and subsequent clarifications come as the country continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, economic challenges, and political divisions. As the 2024 election approaches, it remains to be seen who will emerge as Biden’s potential challenger and how the President’s policies and leadership will continue to shape the future of the country.
