Scheduled to air this Sunday, the conversation, held at the White House, offers a glimpse into Biden’s thoughts on the upcoming election and his role in the Democratic Party’s future.
In a significant departure from his previous restrained public demeanor, Biden addressed former President Donald Trump’s potential victory and the ramifications of a Kamala Harris presidency. Biden described Trump as a genuine threat to American democracy, referring to the former president’s dire warnings about the consequences of a loss in the November election.
“Trump means what he says,” Biden asserted, “All the stuff about, ‘If we lose, there’ll be a bloodbath. It’ll have to be a stolen election’,” echoing Trump’s apocalyptic rhetoric about a “bloodbath” should he lose.
Trump’s earlier comments suggested a tumultuous aftermath if he did not secure re-election, including threats of severe economic repercussions and questions about the future of American democracy. “If you’re listening, President Xi — and you and I are friends — but he understands the way I deal. Those big monster car manufacturing plants that you’re building in Mexico right now … you’re going to not hire Americans and you’re going to sell the cars to us, no. We’re going to put a 100% tariff on every single car that comes across the line, and you’re not going to be able to sell those cars if I get elected,” Trump said during a rally in March 2024.
“Now if I don’t get elected, it’s going to be a bloodbath for the whole — that’s gonna be the least of it,” he added. “It’s going to be a bloodbath for the country. That will be the least of it. But they’re not going to sell those cars. They’re building massive factories.” “If this election isn’t won, I’m not sure that you’ll ever have another election in this country,” Trump added.
Biden also reflected on his own political journey and the decision to step aside from the race. He revealed that his departure was influenced by concerns from Democratic colleagues who feared his continued candidacy might negatively impact their own campaigns. “I was concerned if I stayed in the race, that would be the topic,” Biden explained. “I thought it would be a real distraction.”
Despite his departure, Biden voiced strong support for Kamala Harris and her campaign. He expressed confidence in Harris’ ability to lead, though he admitted to uncertainties about the potential transition of power if Trump were to lose. Biden praised Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as “one hell of a team” and committed to supporting Harris’ campaign efforts wherever possible.
Addressing speculation about his health and debate performance, Biden acknowledged a particularly tough day during his debate with Trump, attributing his struggles to illness rather than any serious health issue. “I had a really, really bad day because I was sick,” he said. “But I have no serious problem.”
In a broader reflection, Biden described his initial intention to serve as a transitional president and acknowledged the challenges he faced in balancing his role with the swift-moving political landscape.