In a recent exclusive interview with USA TODAY, President Joe Biden opened up about his presidency, discussing his potential re-election bid against Donald Trump, legacy considerations, and personal regrets. The unique interview, the only print exit discussion before Biden leaves office, touches on significant topics as he prepares to pass the baton.

Biden expressed confidence in his capacity to have defeated Trump if he had remained in the race for the 2024 election. "It's presumptuous to say that, but I think yes, based on the polling," the 82-year-old president noted regarding his chances against Trump. Despite this, he acknowledged uncertainty about whether he would have had the stamina to serve another four years, stating, "So far, so good, but who knows what I'm going to be when I'm 86 years old?"

During the interview, Biden underscored a memorable meeting with Trump that took place shortly after the election, during which he urged the incoming president not to engage in settling scores against his critics. Notable figures like former Congresswoman Liz Cheney and ex-health official Dr. Anthony Fauci were mentioned as potential subjects of preemptive pardons, a topic Biden is still contemplating. He recounted, "I tried to make clear that there was no need... Trump just basically listened" without offering resistance to the notion.

A surprising revelation came when Biden stated that Trump had complimented him on his economic record during their meeting, saying, "He thought I was leaving with a good record." This occurred even as Trump publicly critiqued Biden’s policies.

In discussing his son, Hunter Biden, and his controversial pardon, Biden reflected, "I meant what I said," emphasizing his previous commitment not to pardon Hunter. However, he later justified the decision based on Hunter’s repayment of taxes and the uniqueness of the legal challenges he faced related to a gun purchase.

As he nears the end of his term, Biden expressed disappointment over not emphasizing his administration's accomplishments more effectively. "I think we would've been a hell of a lot better off had we been able to go much harder at getting some of these projects in the ground quicker," he said.

Looking to the future, Biden voiced concerns regarding Trump’s potential second term, particularly about the future of the Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to enhance clean energy efforts. "On the economy, my single greatest fear is that he will try to... eliminate the elements of the climate law," he warned.

As he concludes his presidency, Biden hopes history will remember him for restoring the economy and re-establishing America's leadership globally, affirming, "I hope it records that I did it with honesty and integrity."

This reflective interview illustrates Biden's deep contemplation of his legacy, key challenges faced during his presidency, and the ongoing relationship with his predecessor.

For more details, please refer to the full article on USA TODAY.