Biden Bows Out

Democratic Nominee Race Heats Up

Delegates to Decide Next Steps

WASHINGTON (AP) —

President Joe Biden has announced that he will end his candidacy for re-election, saying it is in the best interest of his party and the country.

In a statement released Sunday, Biden said he would not seek a second term, citing his age and the need for new leadership. The 81-year-old Biden would have been the oldest president in U.S. history if reelected.

Biden's decision throws the 2024 presidential race into chaos. The Democratic field is now wide open, with no clear frontrunner. Several Democrats have already announced their intention to run, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and former Vice President Al Gore.

The Democratic National Committee will hold a series of debates and caucuses in the coming months to determine the party's nominee. The delegates will vote at the Democratic National Convention in July 2024.

Biden's decision comes as no surprise to many political observers. He has faced declining poll numbers in recent months, and his approval rating has been hovering around 40%. Biden has also been criticized for his handling of the economy, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the war in Ukraine.

In his statement, Biden said he believes it is time for a new generation of leaders to take the helm. He said he will continue to work to support the Democratic Party and the country until the end of his term.

"This decision was not easy, but I believe it is the right one," Biden said. "It is time for a new generation of leaders to take the torch and lead our country into the future."