As President Biden’s one-term presidency draws to a close, he is feeling reflective about his decisions and their impact on the country. He has expressed regret over not signing his name to COVID-19 relief checks, which were distributed after his term began. The move was seen as a missed opportunity to connect with voters who felt left behind.
Biden’s decision not to sign his name on the checks is also linked to his reputation for being poor in Congress. Although he has long since moved beyond this image, it remains a source of nostalgia for some. In contrast, outgoing President Donald Trump has used his wealth and influence to promote his agenda, leaving Biden feeling bitter about the stark differences between their approaches.
The president’s regret is not limited to these issues. He also privately groused about his economic plan being called “Bidenomics,” a label he dislikes. Furthermore, despite acknowledging mistakes during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, Biden does not regret pushing forward with the troop pullout.
With his visit to the Vatican next month, Pope Francis is likely to be an ally and sounding board for Biden as he exits the world stage. The pope has become a trusted friend, offering phone calls and casual check-ins that provide solace in times of uncertainty.
As Biden looks back on his presidency, it’s clear that he is weighing his legacy and the lessons learned from his time in office. With Donald Trump set to return to power, Biden’s reflections serve as a reminder of the stark contrasts between their approaches to politics and leadership.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/25/us/politics