• President Joe Biden delivered a farewell address on January 15, 2025, from the Oval Office.
• He warned of an "oligarchy" emerging in America due to extreme wealth and power concentration.
• Biden highlighted a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas as a significant accomplishment.
• He expressed wishes for success for the incoming Trump administration while cautioning against unchecked power.
• The address marked the end of Biden's presidency and five-decade political career.

In a poignant farewell address delivered from the Oval Office on January 15, 2025, President Joe Biden seized what may be his final opportunity to reshape perceptions surrounding his time in office before handing over the reins to President-elect Donald Trump. The address was notable not only for its reflection on his administration’s achievements but also for its stark warnings regarding the emerging threats to democracy in America.

President Biden acknowledged the challenges faced during his term, stating, "Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy." He expressed concern over the concentration of power among an elite few and the potential dangers posed by a “tech-industrial complex,” citing how unchecked influences could undermine the rights and freedoms of ordinary citizens (Los Angeles Times).

Biden extended his wishes for success to Trump's forthcoming administration, saying, "I wish the incoming administration success," while simultaneously emphasizing the need for vigilance against the dangerous trends that threaten democratic principles (AP News). Earlier in the day, he heralded a significant ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which he hopes will contribute to lasting peace in the Middle East.

Reflecting on his presidency that began in the aftermath of the pandemic, Biden mentioned his accomplishments focused on economic recovery and addressing climate change. However, he voiced regret over unfulfilled promises, attributing part of his struggles to age-related concerns that ultimately influenced his decision to step back from seeking reelection (HuffPost). In an open letter released prior to his speech, he reiterated, "I ran for president because I believed that the soul of America was at stake." He recognized the significance of his journey from humble beginnings to the presidency, stating, “Nowhere else on Earth could a kid with a stutter from modest beginnings in Scranton, Pennsylvania, one day sit behind the Resolute Desk.”

With his departure, Biden’s long political career, which began in 1972 at the age of 30, comes to a close. He underscored his heartfelt appreciation for the American people, stating, “I have given my heart and my soul to our nation. And I have been blessed a million times in return with the love and support of the American people,” marking a reflective end to his five decades of public service (Le Monde).