Biden to Deliver Legacy Defining Farewell Speeches Soon \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ President Joe Biden plans to deliver two major speeches before leaving office, focusing on foreign policy and his legacy in public service. He will reflect on decades in office, including his presidency, and discuss strengthening global alliances. Biden also has scheduled trips and plans to issue additional pardons before his term ends.
Biden’s Final Legacy: Quick Looks
- Two Major Speeches: A foreign policy-focused address and a farewell speech will outline Biden’s legacy.
- Foreign Policy Focus: Topics include NATO, Indo-Pacific relations, and support for Ukraine.
- Farewell Address: Biden will reflect on his 50 years in public service and offer a vision for America’s future.
- Busy Final Weeks: Visits to New Orleans, California, and Italy are planned alongside pardons and other initiatives.
- Legacy Moves: Biden aims to finalize environmental protections and sentencing reforms before leaving office.
Deep Look
As President Joe Biden nears the conclusion of his term, he is preparing to deliver two significant speeches designed to define his legacy after more than five decades in public service. These addresses will include a foreign policy-focused speech and a traditional farewell message to the American people. The speeches, along with a busy schedule of domestic and international engagements, aim to reflect on Biden’s achievements, address pressing issues, and leave a lasting impression as he departs the White House.
Foreign Policy Speech: A Focus on Alliances and Global Security
Biden’s first speech, centered on foreign policy, is expected to be delivered after he returns from a visit to Italy on January 12. According to individuals familiar with the plans, this address will emphasize the president’s core belief that America’s strength lies in its alliances and partnerships across the globe. Key themes are anticipated to include his administration’s efforts to broaden and solidify the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), particularly in response to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Since 2022, Biden has been a vocal advocate for providing Ukraine with military aid and financial support, framing the conflict as a critical moment for defending democratic values worldwide.
The speech is also likely to highlight Biden’s focus on the Indo-Pacific region, including partnerships with nations such as Japan, South Korea, and Australia. By investing in these alliances, Biden has sought to counterbalance the growing influence of China and maintain stability in a region increasingly seen as a central arena for global power dynamics.
However, the address is unlikely to dwell on the more contentious aspects of Biden’s foreign policy legacy, particularly the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. While Biden has defended his decision to end America’s longest war, the chaotic evacuation, which resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members, drew widespread criticism. Instead, the speech is expected to emphasize successes in combating terrorism, including efforts to dismantle ISIS and other extremist organizations.
Farewell Address: Reflecting on a Storied Career
In the days leading up to his departure on January 20, Biden plans to deliver a farewell address to the nation, a tradition observed by many of his predecessors. The speech is expected to reflect on Biden’s decades of service in public office, from his years as a senator to his time as vice president under Barack Obama and his four years as president.
Sources familiar with the plans suggest that Biden will offer a vision for America’s future, emphasizing the importance of unity, resilience, and a renewed focus on democratic values. This address will likely echo the sentiments of previous farewell speeches by presidents like George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, who delivered their parting words from the White House, and Barack Obama, who addressed the nation from his hometown of Chicago before a live audience.
Biden’s farewell speech is expected to strike a hopeful tone, focusing on themes of progress, perseverance, and national strength amid challenges. It will also provide an opportunity for the president to thank the American people and reflect on the defining moments of his presidency, from navigating the COVID-19 pandemic to leading the global response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
A Packed Final Schedule
Even as he prepares these landmark speeches, Biden’s final weeks in office are filled with engagements that reflect the breadth of his presidency. On Monday, Biden will visit New Orleans to meet with the families of victims of a recent attack and consult with local officials. This visit underscores the administration’s ongoing efforts to address domestic concerns, including rising concerns over public safety and homegrown radicalization.
Later in the week, Biden will travel to California, where he is expected to highlight his administration’s environmental achievements. Among these are the creation of new national monuments and advancements in renewable energy initiatives, cornerstones of his push to combat climate change.
On January 12, Biden is scheduled to travel to Rome and Vatican City for what is expected to be his final international trip as president. This visit will provide an opportunity to underscore the diplomatic relationships he has cultivated during his presidency and reinforce key foreign policy priorities.
Final Presidential Actions
Before leaving office, Biden is expected to issue a final round of presidential pardons. According to sources familiar with the plans, these pardons will likely focus on addressing sentencing disparities, particularly those affecting nonviolent offenders. This reflects Biden’s broader commitment to criminal justice reform, an issue he has championed throughout his career.
However, questions remain about whether Biden will issue preemptive pardons to individuals who could face legal challenges under the incoming administration. Sources suggest that Biden is unlikely to grant clemency without the individual’s explicit consent, signaling a cautious approach to this controversial topic.
A Legacy of Service and Resilience
As Biden prepares to leave office, his speeches and actions in these final weeks are designed to solidify his legacy. From foreign policy achievements to domestic initiatives, Biden’s presidency has been marked by efforts to bridge divides and restore America’s leadership on the global stage.
His farewell address, in particular, will offer a chance to reflect on his long career and the lessons learned during a period of profound change and challenge. While his presidency faced significant hurdles, Biden’s focus on unity and collaboration remains central to his message.
In his final days, Biden’s legacy will continue to unfold as he seeks to leave the nation better prepared for the road ahead. These final speeches, coupled with a busy agenda, reflect a president dedicated to ensuring that his time in office will be remembered for its commitment to progress, resilience, and hope.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.