In his final address from the Oval Office, outgoing US President Joe Biden used the occasion to reflect on his administration’s legacy, issuing a sharp critique of the growing concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few. Speaking on Wednesday, Biden warned that this “dangerous concentration” is undermining the foundations of American democracy. He also took aim at President-elect Donald Trump, advocating for constitutional reforms and accountability for presidential actions.
Biden Warns of “Oligarchy” Threatening Democracy
Biden painted a stark picture of the current political and economic landscape, expressing concern that the US is increasingly controlled by a small group of elites. “Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights, and freedom,” he said, calling for urgent reform to prevent the further entrenchment of this power imbalance.
He also reiterated his position on tax reform, arguing that the current system unfairly benefits the wealthiest Americans. “The tax code must be reformed, not by giving the biggest tax cuts to billionaires, but by making them begin to pay their fair share,” Biden said, underscoring his belief in economic fairness as a cornerstone of democracy.
A Veiled Critique of Trump: The Need for Accountability
Although Biden wished a smooth transition of power to the incoming Trump administration, his farewell address contained a thinly veiled rebuke of the outgoing president. In a call for constitutional reform, Biden said, “We need to amend the Constitution to make clear that no president is immune from crimes that he or she commits while in office.”
The comment was widely interpreted as a reference to Trump’s legal battles and the controversy surrounding his actions during his presidency. While Biden did not directly name Trump, his words served as a reminder that no leader, regardless of their position, should be beyond accountability.
Acknowledging the Threat of Misinformation
Biden also expressed alarm over the spread of misinformation, which he said is exacerbating political divisions and allowing the abuse of power. “Americans are being buried under an avalanche of misinformation and disinformation, enabling the abuse of power,” Biden noted, criticizing both the decline of the free press and the unchecked influence of social media platforms.
He added that misinformation is undermining democracy itself, as social media companies have increasingly abandoned their responsibility to fact-check, allowing falsehoods to flourish. “The truth is smothered by lies told for power and profit,” Biden said, urging accountability for tech companies and calling for protections for children and families from harmful narratives.
Reflecting on a Lifetime of Service
Despite the sharp criticisms, Biden’s farewell address was also a tribute to his long career in public service. Reflecting on the challenges of his presidency, Biden said, “It has been the privilege of my life to serve this nation for over 50 years… I have given my heart and my soul to our nation.” He also praised Vice President Kamala Harris as a great partner and credited her with helping steer the country through difficult times.
In a letter to the American people, Biden expressed pride in his administration’s accomplishments, including the recent ceasefire agreement in Gaza and the return of hostages. “I will always be proud of the work we’ve done to restore America’s standing in the world,” he wrote, adding that the country must continue building on the progress achieved during his time in office.
Looking Ahead: Protecting American Institutions
Biden closed his farewell speech by emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the nation’s democratic values. “Now it’s your turn to stand guard,” he told the American people. He called for unity and reaffirmed his belief in the strength of American institutions, even as the country prepares for a new administration. “The strengths of our institutions and the character of our people must endure,” he said, underscoring the need for continued vigilance in defending democracy.
A Legacy of Service and Warnings for the Future
As Biden prepares to hand over the presidency to Trump, his farewell address marked the end of an era of intense political division. Biden’s remarks about the rising influence of the wealthy, the spread of misinformation, and the need for greater accountability for public figures were a clarion call to protect the nation’s democratic institutions. While his legacy remains a topic of debate, his final speech serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing America in the years ahead.