The Rise and Fall of Biden's Presidency: An Analysis of Legacy and Longevity

An exploration of Joe Biden's presidency reveals an administration ensnared by unforeseen crises, internal discord, and the shadow of Donald Trump, leading to a legacy overshadowed by missed opportunities, political setbacks, and the impending handover of power.

As Joe Biden concluded his presidency with the eulogy for former President Jimmy Carter, he found himself sharing a stage with other former presidents, each of whom had experienced the elusive validation of re-election that has remained outside Biden's reach. The contrast was stark; while Biden lauded Carter's foresight and achievements, he was simultaneously grappling with the reality of his presidency, which appears to be defined less by his successes and more by the events that unraveled his administration.

His recent approval ratings signal considerable dissatisfaction among the electorate, with only 39% of Americans viewing him positively, a steep decline from the 57% support he garnered at the beginning of his term. This waning approval is compounded by the anticipation of Donald Trump's return to the presidency, a recurrence that many attribute to Biden's inability to secure a lasting legacy against the backdrop of a contentious political landscape.

While Biden did shepherd significant policies through Congress, including substantial infrastructure investments and judicial appointments, these achievements were not enough to outweigh the missteps and crises that accompanied his administration. Political analysts like Susan Estrich emphasize that rather than being remembered as a transformational leader, Biden's presidency may instead serve as a transitional phase between Trump's terms—a bridge rather than a beacon of change.

The administration's early challenges set a precedent for the ensuing difficulties. The chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 marked the onset of Biden’s struggle to manage both international and domestic crises effectively. This was followed by rising inflation and a series of misjudged responses to key issues, from immigration to pandemic-related shortages. Despite the administration's claims of recovery, voters remained skeptical, as the economic benefits of policies failed to resonate with the average citizen.

Infighting within Biden’s inner circle further complicated matters. Early triumphs gave way to frustration as the administration's focus shifted towards legislative victories instead of the immediate needs of the populace. Critics suggest that Biden's insular decision-making hindered adaptability and responsiveness during this challenging period.

As 2023 unfolded, the Biden administration faced heightened scrutiny and political opposition, culminating in an impeachment inquiry that overshadowed his presidency's achievements. Despite efforts to reframe the economic narrative under the banner of "Bidenomics," discrepancies between messaging and reality transcended the political arena, making Biden seem less relatable to an anxious public.

The emotional toll of family controversies, including Hunter Biden’s legal issues, and management of foreign policy crises, such as the ongoing situation in Israel, added layers of complexity to an already beleaguered presidency. Biden’s performance during critical debates further amplified questions regarding his age and capabilities, leading many to speculate about the President’s future as he aimed for re-election.

Ultimately, Biden's ambitious plans for a second term were thwarted by a cocktail of external pressures and self-inflicted challenges. As he prepares to pass power back to Trump, many reflect on what could have been—whether a decision to step aside could have enabled a smoother transition for the Democratic Party and a different trajectory for Biden's legacy.

In the grand narrative of American politics, Biden’s resignation will mark the end of an era riddled with both promise and disappointment, leaving historians to ponder not only his personal legacy but the evolving landscape of the nation as he exits the national stage.