In a surprising development, U.S. President Joe Biden has announced he will not seek re-election, citing the best interests of his party and the country. The announcement comes just four months before the presidential election, reshaping the race for the White House.

President Biden’s decision follows intense pressure from fellow Democrats after a faltering debate performance against Republican candidate Donald Trump in late June. In a letter shared on social media, Biden expressed that serving as president has been the greatest honor of his life. “While it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” he stated.

Biden plans to address the nation on the matter next week. He expressed gratitude to Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her an “extraordinary partner,” and thanked the American people for their faith and trust. “I believe today and always have: that there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America,” Biden added.

Recently diagnosed with COVID-19, Biden returned to his home in Delaware but had expressed eagerness to resume campaigning. Previously, he stated that only the “Lord Almighty” could deter him from running, but later mentioned he would reconsider if faced with a health condition.

On Sunday, Biden endorsed Vice President Harris as the Democratic Party’s nominee. In a statement posted on X, he said, “My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term.” He praised Harris as his best decision in 2020 and urged Democrats to unite to defeat Trump. “Let’s do this,” he concluded.

The announcement marks a significant shift in the 2024 presidential race, with Harris now poised to lead the Democratic ticket.