In his first address since withdrawing from his re-election bid, President Joe Biden called on Americans to "preserve our democracy" and emphasized the need for "new voices, fresh voices, and younger voices." Speaking from behind the presidential desk, Biden invoked historical figures like Jefferson, Washington, and Franklin, underscoring the nation's inflection point and the power held by its citizens. Biden acknowledged his decision to step aside, citing the personal sacrifice it entailed and stressing that nothing should come before saving democracy, including his ambitions. He emphasized passing the torch to a new generation and framed his struggles as strengths, reflecting on his journey from modest beginnings in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Surrounded by family, including his son Hunter, daughter Ashley, and First Lady Jill Biden, he addressed the softening of his voice and the legacy of his presidency. Without mentioning Donald Trump, he highlighted the threat to democracy and praised Vice President Kamala Harris. He concluded with a call to action, urging unity to preserve democracy, and received a minute-long applause from those present.