President Joe Biden made his final address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, marking the end of an era as he prepares to step down from public office. In what will be one of his last high-profile engagements before the November election.
Biden reflected on his 50 years of public service and emphasized the importance of global unity and a peaceful transition to a new generation of leaders. “Today is the fourth time I’ve spoken to the U.N. General Assembly as president. And it will be my last,” Biden wrote in an X post after his speech.
“After over 50 years of public service, I decided it was time for a new generation to take our nation forward. Because some things are more important than staying in power.” While his message was one of reflection and gratitude, reactions online were mixed. Some praised his leadership, while others viewed his departure with skepticism.
One X user commented, “Spooky image,” while another speculated, “Weird way of saying you were overthrown by your own party elites.” A supporter, however, expressed appreciation, saying, “Thank you so much, Joe Biden. We truly love you. Best President ever!”
According to AP News, During his address to the global assembly, Biden shared a hopeful vision for the future. “I know many look at the world today and see difficulties and react with despair, but I do not,” Biden said. “We are stronger than we think when the world acts together.”
He stressed the need for cooperation, warning against isolationism: “Our task, our test, is to make sure that the forces holding us together are stronger than the forces pulling us apart.” Biden also used the platform to issue a warning about the rapidly developing field of artificial intelligence (AI).
He expressed concerns about its potential misuse, particularly by totalitarian regimes. “There may well be no greater test of our leadership than how we deal with AI,” Biden said. He urged world leaders to ensure AI is used to “uplift and empower everyday people, not to give dictators more powerful shackles on the human spirit.”
As he concluded his speech, Biden highlighted the importance of selfless leadership, reiterating his decision to step down. “Some things are more important than staying in power,” he said. “It’s your people that matter the most. Never forget, we are here to serve the people. Not the other way around.” Biden’s final remarks were a call to leaders worldwide to prioritize the needs of their citizens, leaving behind a legacy rooted in service, humility, and global cooperation.