Outgoing President Joe Biden addressed the nation on Jan. 15 from the Oval Office one last time just days before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. The speech, delivered in a very sophisticated but also alarming tone, marked the end of his presidency. Biden focused on highlighting his administration’s accomplishments, efforts to strengthen democracy and navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
In his farewell speech, Biden clarified his commitment to defending democratic values, particularly in the face of rising threats both within the U.S. and globally. He spoke about the need for institutions that protect freedom, noting the ongoing challenges of political power.
Another major theme of his speech was the warning against the growing influence of oligarchies, typically defined as a small group of people having control of a country, organization or institution. Biden expressed concern about the wealth and power in the hands of a few corporate elites, who he argued had too much control over politics and media, in what some say could be a remark to the appointed Elon Musk with his government efficiency job.
“Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedoms and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead,” he said.
Biden also stated in his speech that wealth should be earned fairly and that policies should hold the wealthy accountable.
“People should be able to make as much as they can, but play by the same rules, pay their fair share in taxes,” Biden said.
The outgoing president also devoted much of his speech to discussing the ongoing climate crisis.
“That’s why I signed the most significant climate and clean energy law ever — in the history of the world, and the rest of the world is trying to model it now. It’s working, creating jobs and industries of the future,” Biden said.
He urged Americans to continue the fight for climate action.
“We must not be bullied into sacrificing the future, the future of our children and our grandchildren. We must keep pushing forward and push faster. There is no time to waste,” Biden said.
Finally, Biden warned about the role of new and fast-coming technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. While seeing Artificial Intelligence’s potential, he stressed the need for caution.
“Artificial intelligence is the most consequential technology of our time — perhaps of all time. Nothing offers more profound possibilities and risks for our economy and our security, our society, our very — for humanity.” Biden added. “We must make sure AI is safe and trustworthy and good for all humankind.”
Biden referenced President Eisenhower’s speech concerns about unchecked power.
“Six decades later, I’m equally concerned about the potential rise of a tech-industrial complex that could pose real dangers for our country as well,” Biden said.
His address was an appeal to both the accomplishments of his presidency and the potential challenges ahead, urging Americans to stay strong in protecting one’s democracy and protecting the planet. As he prepared to hand over the reins of power to his successor, Biden’s tone was one of hope and warning, reminding the nation that the job of building a better future is still far from over.
