As Joe Biden’s presidency nears its end, opinions about his time in office are mixed. Surveys indicate that a majority of Americans view his presidency unfavorably, with many predicting he will be remembered as a below-average or poor president. However, historians suggest that his legacy will take years to fully assess.
Biden’s early days in office were marked by decisive actions to address the COVID-19 pandemic, including fast-tracking vaccinations and passing the American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion relief package. This was seen as a major achievement in his first 100 days, alongside efforts to bolster clean energy, infrastructure, job creation, and healthcare.
Other significant accomplishments during his presidency include the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS Act to boost domestic chip manufacturing, and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which brought some of the first major gun safety measures in decades. However, some critics question the effectiveness of these policies, especially in relation to inflation, which surged to a 40-year high during his tenure.
Despite these challenges, Biden’s foreign policy efforts, especially his support for Ukraine amid the Russian invasion, are viewed more positively. He also faced a difficult situation in the Middle East, where he managed to navigate support for Israel while advocating for Palestinian humanitarian aid. However, the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, which resulted in the deaths of American service members, has been a major blemish on his presidency.
Biden announced his re-election bid in 2023, but concerns over his age intensified after a disappointing debate performance in 2024. This ultimately led to his decision to withdraw from the race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. Many analysts believe his age and the complications surrounding his re-election bid may overshadow his achievements in office.
Overall, Biden’s presidency is seen by some as one marked by legislative accomplishments and strong international leadership, while others criticize his handling of domestic economic challenges and foreign conflicts.
