Joe Biden’s Legacy Rests on the Next Four Years of Donald Trump | US News

The assumption was that this speech would be laden with arrogance and resentment.

It was expected to be a nostalgic farewell woven with the frustration that, despite the accomplishments of his single term in office—which included a thriving economy, record high employment, historic infrastructure legislation, climate initiatives, and more—America failed to acknowledge him properly.

However, as the sun dipped beneath the horizon of the Biden administration, he readied himself to give a speech that would surprise.

With statements and a backdrop that hold immense significance – “My fellow Americans, I’m addressing you tonight from the Oval Office” – this was his final chance to shape his legacy.

Instead of a mere enumeration of his successes, it transformed into a heartfelt farewell.

“I wish to alert the nation to some issues that deeply trouble me,” he stated.

“There exists a dangerous concentration of power among a select few extremely wealthy individuals. The perilous repercussions of their unbridled authority are being overlooked.”

Then came a line he likely hopes will endure long after his departure.

“Today, an oligarchy is emerging in America, characterized by extreme wealth, influence, and power that genuinely jeopardize our democracy, our fundamental rights and freedoms, and an equitable chance for all to succeed.”

This was an extension of his assertion that ‘Trump poses a threat to democracy.’ He articulated that the risk also pertains to the billionaires surrounding the president-elect, indirectly referencing Elon Musk without needing to name him.

While some may view Mr. Musk as a symbol of American opportunity—an immigrant with innovative ideas and entrepreneurial spirit—Biden perceives him as a representative of unchecked authority.

But his cautions extended further.

👉 Listen to Sky News Daily on your podcast app 👈

“I share the concern about the potential emergence of a tech industrial complex that could pose substantial risks for our nation as well,” he remarked.

“Americans are being overwhelmed by a torrent of misinformation and disinformation, facilitating the abuse of authority. The free press is deteriorating. Social media platforms are abandoning fact-checking. The truth is suffocated by lies spoken for power and profit.”

President-elect Trump has enlisted at least 13 billionaires to join his administration—selected, as he would argue, based on their notability.

The rapid acquiescence of tech moguls to Donald Trump has been remarkable.

Expected to join Elon Musk with prime seating at Monday’s inauguration are Apple CEO Tim Cook, Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, who owns the Washington Post, and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew.

President Biden understands that no one creates their own legacy; it is crafted by others. Thus, his message appeared to convey – ‘wait and observe; my legacy will manifest as the truth about the threats posed by Trump and his entourage, and the decline of veracity.’

Furthermore, in the future, beyond his administration, his contributions will be recognized.

“You know, it will require time to appreciate the full impact of all we’ve accomplished together,” he said, “…but the seeds are sown, and they will flourish and thrive for decades ahead.”

At this moment, he stands as the figure who sparked Donald Trump’s resurgence. He is the wavering individual whose arrogance hindered him from resigning before it became too late. He holds the title of the foreign policy president who could not govern a tumultuous world.

Yet, a legacy is not finalized in the present; it is solidified long after.

To a significant extent, the shape of his legacy will hinge on the next four years under President Donald Trump.