Joe Biden’s Tenure as the 46th President
Biden took office on January 20, 2021, and his term ended on January 20, 2025. This period marked significant changes in American politics and global affairs. As the oldest president ever to serve, Biden brought a wealth of experience to the White House but also faced numerous challenges that tested his leadership skills.
Restoring America’s Place on the Global Stage
Biden’s administration focused on reestablishing the United States as a leader among global democracies. He signed international security alliances like AUKUS with Australia and the UK, and supported NATO’s expansion into Finland and Sweden. These moves aimed to strengthen alliances and counterbalance rising powers such as China.
Domestic Legislation and Social Policies
Biden signed several major pieces of legislation during his term, including the American Rescue Plan Act, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and Inflation Reduction Act. These bills aimed to address economic recovery, infrastructure development, and climate change.
Healthcare and Social Safety Net
Biden expanded the social safety net through proposed bills that failed Congress but were included in the Inflation Reduction Act. He signed gun control laws and bills expanding healthcare for veterans. Additionally, he appointed Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court and created the Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
Economic Recovery and Job Creation
The Biden administration oversaw a strong economic recovery post-COVID-19, breaking unemployment records and creating 16 million new jobs. However, his presidency was marked by controversy over his age and mental fitness, leading to speculation about not seeking re-election.
Addressing Inflation
Inflation peaked at 9.1% in 2022 but dropped to 2.9% by July 2024. The administration tackled inflation through various measures, including addressing structural housing shortages and climate change impacts.
Foreign Policy and Diplomacy
Biden’s foreign policy was characterized by a mix of engagement and assertiveness. He took tough stances on China, sanctioned Russian officials over human rights violations, and supported Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. The administration also focused on rebuilding relations with European allies and addressing issues in the Middle East.
Support for Israel
Biden’s support for Israel was a key aspect of his foreign policy. He pledged unprecedented military aid to Israel, including $14.3 billion in emergency funding, but faced criticism from Palestinian advocacy groups and some Democrats over the war in Gaza.
Environmental Initiatives
The administration made significant strides in environmental policies, aiming to combat climate change through investments in clean energy and infrastructure. Biden rejoined the Paris Agreement and signed the Inflation Reduction Act, which included substantial federal investment in domestic clean energy production.
Criticism and Controversies
Despite these achievements, the administration faced criticism for its handling of issues like inflation, healthcare, and foreign policy. The approval ratings declined over time, with 91% of Democrats but only 8% of Republicans supporting him.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Challenges and Achievements
Biden’s presidency was a complex mix of successes and challenges. From restoring America’s global standing to addressing domestic issues like healthcare and climate change, his tenure left an indelible mark on American politics and policy.
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This page is based on the article Presidency of Joe Biden published in Wikipedia (retrieved on February 16, 2025) and was automatically summarized using artificial intelligence.