As President Biden's term concludes and President-elect Trump begins his second, the Washington Post's editorial board suggests history may judge Biden more favorably than the current public opinion. While acknowledging Biden's low approval ratings, the Post highlights achievements such as navigating the pandemic, implementing vaccine rollouts, and appointing the first African American woman to the Supreme Court. They also credit him with stabilizing the economy and providing a sense of calm amidst political turmoil.
However, the Post doesn't shy away from the challenges that marked Biden's presidency. They cite issues like inflation, border security, the Afghanistan withdrawal, and the controversy surrounding his son as factors contributing to his unpopularity. Furthermore, they express concern that many of Biden's policies will likely be reversed by the incoming administration.
The editorial board also touches upon the irony of Biden's potential legacy. While many Americans appreciated having him in office instead of Trump, his inability to bridge partisan divides and boost his approval ratings ultimately led to Trump's re-election. This raises questions about the long-term impact of his presidency.
The Post's decision not to endorse any presidential candidate in 2024, despite initial intentions to support Vice President Harris, adds another layer to the narrative. This decision, reportedly influenced by owner Jeff Bezos, led to the resignation of several staff members, further highlighting the complex political landscape.
