We’ve had a very tumultuous 10 days in American politics. It’s a reminder of many things, but more than anything, it’s a testament to the fact that we owe respect to those that choose to be in the arena. The blessing, and lately the curse, of America is that we allow ideas - messy, confused, inchoate, contradictory - to flourish. At times this ‘marketplace of ideas’ brings out the best in us - challenging our notions and ways of thinking to arrive at the best possible outcome. Lately, however, it’s brought out the worst in us. Rigid dogmas that harden preconceived notions and widen divisions. When politics becomes a game of winners and losers instead of reasoned compromise and debate, we all suffer the consequences. I celebrate President Biden’s last full act of public service in allowing this election to be a contest of competing visions for the future of our country and not a referendum on his mental acuity. He’s a genuinely good man who did an honorable thing today. Let’s reflect on that fact and try to remember what we can accomplish when we keep in mind that there is so much more that unites us than divides us. The world is watching - this is our moment.
Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order. Here’s my full statement:
