Biden’s Memoir Defends 2024 Campaign, Rebuts Critics on Age and Netanyahu

Key points

• Biden states he was fully aware of the political crisis following his June 2024 debate, contradicting claims that he was unaware of losing support.
• He defends his 2023 decision to run for reelection, claiming all top advisers, including Kamala Harris, supported the move at the time.
• Biden criticizes Netanyahu for making promises to limit civilian casualties in Gaza that he did not keep, describing a lack of trust between them.
• The memoir includes the full text of a 2021 letter from Donald Trump, which was notably cordial and did not challenge the 2020 election results.
• Biden notes that Nancy Pelosi told him polls showed no chance of winning, leading to a months-long rift, though they have since reconnected.

Background

Biden is currently undergoing treatment for stage IV prostate cancer and has curtailed in-person promotion for the book. Previous coverage highlighted his condemnation of Trump’s January 6 pardons and a warm 2024 transition meeting. This release follows earlier reports on his memoir’s contents, including his defense of the Afghanistan withdrawal and his legislative record.

How outlets are covering it

CNN and The Seattle Times emphasize Biden’s unapologetic defense of his 2024 candidacy and his assertion that he was mentally capable despite his age. The Atlantic characterizes the memoir as 'pugnacious' and 'unreflective,' noting Biden’s refusal to concede mistakes. The New York Times highlights the contrast between Trump’s cordial 2021 transition letter and Biden’s public criticisms of Trump’s election denialism. While CNN focuses on Biden’s rebuttal of the Robert Hur report and his interactions with Harris, The Seattle Times details his legislative battles, including with Senator Joe Manchin, and his views on the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Why it matters

The memoir provides a direct response from Biden to long-standing criticisms of his mental fitness and decision-making during the 2024 election. It offers insight into the internal Democratic dynamics that led to his withdrawal and the subsequent rise of Kamala Harris. Additionally, it sheds light on the complex relationship between the U.S. and Israel during the Gaza conflict, as well as the personal dynamics between former presidents Biden and Trump.

What to watch

Biden has announced he will limit in-person promotion for the book due to his health. The full text of 'Promise Me, America' is expected to provide further details on his presidency and 2024 campaign. No immediate political actions are expected from Biden, who is currently focused on his cancer treatment.