The Fall of a Presidency: Joe Biden’s Legacy and the Struggles of His Final Years in Office

 

Joe Biden’s presidency, which began with promises of unity and strengthening democracy, is ending on a sour note.

Despite his long tenure in public office, Biden leaves behind a divided nation, a fractured Democratic Party, and a tarnished legacy. Many within his party are critical of his decision to run for re-election in 2024, especially as public polls showed discontent among Democrats. His approval ratings have remained low throughout his presidency, and the decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, added to his political troubles.

Biden's relationship with former allies has also deteriorated. He is estranged from key figures such as Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, and several former aides. Tensions within his own inner circle, including with his personal lawyer Bob Bauer and adviser Anita Dunn, have further complicated his exit from office. Even his own family, including Hunter and Jill Biden, have clashed with his White House staff.

Throughout his presidency, Biden faced internal struggles over his leadership style, trying to balance his working-class roots with his connections to corporate interests. His handling of the economy, border security, and pandemic-era policies has been criticized by both supporters and opponents. Despite some achievements, like infrastructure investments and navigating the pandemic, his presidency is ending with a sense of bitterness, as he feels his accomplishments have gone underappreciated.

Biden’s decision to stay in office despite mounting concerns about his age and cognitive abilities has been questioned by many, leading to a fractured Democratic Party and a nation skeptical of his leadership. As he prepares to leave office with a 36% approval rating, many wonder if his legacy will be defined by his successes or failures in his presidency's final chapters.