US President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election was both inevitable and right. After his faltering performance in recent public appearances, Biden could no longer brush aside questions about his ability to serve four more years in office.
By stepping aside now, Biden can retire with honour and a significant record of achievement as president. He has also ensured that American voters will have a proper choice in November. Millions of voters who have deep and justified concerns about Donald Trump would still have struggled to vote for a visibly declining president.
Biden has now thrown his support behind Kamala Harris, his vice-president. Democratic party leaders are rallying behind Harris and she is the overwhelming favourite to be the party’s candidate against Trump.