In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden is spending his last days in the Oval Office engaging in unexpected actions that are reshaping his final legacy. These include pardoning his son Hunter and shifting away from longtime allies such as Nancy Pelosi and Kamala Harris. This phase of his presidency is marked by personal and political reevaluations amidst significant controversies.
According to Mail Online, President Biden's recent choices have ignited controversy and sparked speculation about his motivations and plans.
Amidst organizing festive activities at the White House, Biden has been busy with commendable duties and settling old scores. His actions have left many in Washington puzzled about his sudden change in approach during these closing days.
Just two weeks ago, Biden made a highly controversial decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, who had been at the center of various debates and legal scrutinies during much of his presidency. This move was unexpected, especially after Biden’s previous assurances that he would not interfere in legal matters concerning his son. Along with this, approximately 1,500 other sentences were commuted quietly, including that of a relative of a CCP member involved in a child pornography case.
While these decisions have undoubtedly cast a shadow over his presidency's final days, they have been supported by First Lady Jill Biden, whose influence in these matters has been notably significant.
A major shift in internal politics has been Biden’s increasingly strained relationship with Nancy Pelosi. After Pelosi’s urging for Biden to not seek re-election in the 2024 Presidential race, which took place on June 21, an evident cold front developed between them. This strain was highlighted during public events such as the Kennedy Center Honors, where Pelosi and her husband were positioned significantly away from the presidential box—a notable break from tradition.
Further indications of Biden’s altered political alliances were seen in his quick endorsement of Kamala Harris as his successor, which some insiders believe was to spite Pelosi and former President Barack Obama, who reportedly doubted Harris’s viability as a candidate. This action, however, might have backfired as Biden has begun distancing himself from Harris following her loss to Donald Trump.
Sources close to the administration describe an overwhelming mood of gloom and tiredness due to ongoing government, foreign policy, and staffing challenges. Even the White House’s usual holiday cheer seemed subdued, with scaled-down events and the Bidens spending much of early December traveling abroad.
This melancholy is partly attributed to Biden’s reflections during the holiday season, a period marked by the anniversary of his family's tragic car accident, an event that historically brings him a great deal of sadness.
Amid these challenges, statements from the White House, like those from Communications Director Ben LaBolt, emphasize the productivity and commitment of Biden's presidency, suggesting a continuous focus on national issues despite the interpersonal dramas unfolding.
Looking forward, President Biden has expressed intentions to continue his public service after leaving office, with plans to establish a presidential library in Delaware.
Amidst speculation concerning donor support for his future initiatives, notably after his late decision to exit the 2024 race, there has been a significant boost from public figures like Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, who contributed to one of the Bidens' charity initiatives.
Jill Biden, meanwhile, has made a significant personal decision to retire from her teaching position, marking the end of a significant chapter in her life, but also the beginning of a new one alongside her husband in the public arena.
In summation, President Biden’s final weeks are characterized by bold and controversial decisions that have resurfaced old wounds and altered long-standing alliances. These actions, amid personal and seasonal melancholy, point to a profound period of transition for both him and the First Lady as they prepare for their lives beyond the White House.