In his first major public address since leaving office, former President Joe Biden delivered a passionate speech at a disability advocacy conference in Chicago, marking a significant reentry into the political arena. The event, held at the United Center, was filled with emotional moments and pointed critiques, particularly targeting the current administration’s handling of Social Security.Vanity Fair+2Time+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2Politico+2Vanity Fair+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2
Biden began by reflecting on his lifelong commitment to public service, stating, “I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my career, but I gave my best to you.” He emphasized the importance of Social Security, describing it as a “sacred promise” vital to 73 million Americans, and criticized recent administrative decisions that have led to staff reductions and office closures within the Social Security Administration (SSA). He attributed these changes to efforts by the Trump administration and figures like Elon Musk, accusing them of undermining the system to fund tax cuts for the wealthy. AP News+2CBS News+2Axios+2The Guardian+1Latest news & breaking headlines+1Latest news & breaking headlines+1The Guardian+1
The former president also shared personal anecdotes, including a formative childhood experience when his family moved from Scranton, Pennsylvania, to Wilmington, Delaware. This move exposed him to racial segregation and ignited his early sense of social justice. However, his use of the outdated term “colored kids” while recounting this story drew criticism from Trump supporters and reignited accusations about his mental fitness. Vanity Fair
Biden’s speech was met with a standing ovation from the crowd, with chants of “We love Joe” echoing throughout the arena. He expressed his support for Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her “experienced, tough, capable” and an “incredible partner for me and a leader for our country.” He endorsed her as his successor, urging the party to unite behind her candidacy. Time+4Axios+4https://www.inquirer.com+4BBC NewsAP News
Despite stepping back from the political spotlight, Biden’s reemergence has sparked discussions about his continued influence within the Democratic Party. His speech highlighted ongoing concerns about the current administration’s policies and emphasized the need to protect essential social programs like Social Security. As the political landscape evolves, Biden’s voice remains a significant one in shaping the discourse around social equity and public service.
