Biden Voices Deep Concern for U.S. Democracy in Final Oval Office Interview

In a reflective Oval Office interview with Lawrence O'Donnell, President Joe Biden expressed grave concerns about the state of American democracy as he prepares to leave office.

The interview, conducted days before his departure, followed Biden's farewell address, where he issued warnings about growing threats to democratic values.

Biden highlighted his worries about the fragility of democracy in the United States. “I really am concerned about how fragile democracy is,” he said. “We’re at an inflection point in history. Democracy requires constant effort, and yet it feels like key elements are being chipped away.”

During the interview, Biden expanded on themes from his farewell address, emphasizing the dangers posed by oligarchic power and the concentration of wealth.

“There’s a dangerous concentration of power in the hands of a few ultra-wealthy people,” he stated. “Unchecked, this imbalance can undermine the foundations of our democracy.”

Reflecting on his presidency, Biden admitted that he focused more on policy than on politics, a decision he now views as a missed opportunity to strengthen support for his administration’s achievements.

“I spent too much time on policy and not enough on politics,” Biden said. “People should know who’s responsible for what, but boasting about achievements has always felt in bad taste to me.”

When asked about the challenges his successor, Donald Trump, might bring, Biden expressed serious concern. “Every day, I wake up and worry about what’s next,” he said.

Biden also reiterated his belief that no president should be above the law, calling for constitutional reforms to ensure accountability for crimes committed while in office.

Biden, who initially launched a reelection campaign before stepping aside to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris, reflected on his legacy and the importance of prioritizing democratic principles.

“My hope is that we never lose sight of what makes our democracy strong—accountability, fairness, and respect for the rule of law.”

The interview concluded with Biden emphasizing the importance of vigilance in protecting democracy. “This isn’t just about politics. It’s about ensuring that future generations inherit a nation where democracy is not just a word, but a practice.”