Biden Reflects on Trump’s Presidency: 'That's Not Who We Are'

Former President Biden's candid conversation sheds light on his fears regarding the Atlantic Alliance and criticism of Trump's foreign policy decisions.

In a striking and forthright interview, Joe Biden addresses the actions and rhetoric of Donald Trump during his first 100 days in office, emphasizing the necessity of unity within the Atlantic Alliance and condemning Trump's approach towards allies, especially regarding Ukraine. Speaking in Delaware, where he began his political journey more than fifty years ago, Biden manifests both a sense of loss and a persistent hope for America’s democratic values.

Biden critiques Trump for repeatedly leveraging his name as a political weapon, using "Biden" over 580 times in his speeches to deflect blame and bolster his agenda. While former presidents traditionally refrain from criticizing their successors, Biden's interview reveals a palpable urgency to speak out. He expresses frustration particularly about Trump’s interactions with NATO and Ukraine, denouncing the former president's suggestion of appeasing Putin as “beneath America.”

“There are things worth fighting for,” Biden states emphatically, referencing the historical context surrounding NATO's foundation for global peace. His concerns extend beyond Trump’s rhetoric; he fears for the future of the United States and its allies, stressing that a weakening of the Atlantic Alliance could lead to disastrous global consequences, particularly if nations like China and Russia gain confidence from perceived U.S. indecision.

Transitioning towards the domestic front, Biden reflects on the scrutiny his age faced during and after his presidency, but remains resolute in his belief that he made the right decision in stepping back from the race for re-election. As he noted, he had success with Kamala Harris as the party's candidate but admits that it was a challenging decision shaped by the circumstances at play.

Amid discussion of democracy facing unprecedented challenges globally, Biden pointedly indicated that Trump's conduct deviates from traditional Republican norms, implying that the party is beginning to confront the realities of their recent allegiance to Trump. Furthermore, he highlights the significance of ongoing global political tensions and reiterates the necessity of U.S. leadership in preserving democracy and international alliances.

Biden firmly believes that despite the changing political landscape, the principles of freedom and cooperation must guide American foreign policy. His recent reassurances upheld at D-Day celebrations reinforce the historical duty to defend democratic values, reminding the world of America’s role in championing peace and freedom—a message he fears is at risk of being forgotten in modern politics. As he suggests, “Every generation has to fight for democracy; it is up to us to keep that legacy alive.”