President Biden on 60 Minutes through the years | 60 Minutes Full Episodes
23 Jul 2024 (2 months ago)
2023
- President Biden expressed his deep concern for the safety of American citizens in Israel, particularly those who were missing after the Hamas attack. He emphasized his commitment to finding them and bringing them home.
- Biden condemned the Hamas attack as "pure barbarism" and ordered the deployment of two aircraft carriers and other naval assets to the region. He also discussed the potential for increased terrorism in the United States due to the situation in the Middle East.
- Biden acknowledged the severity of the situation in Gaza, calling it a "humanitarian disaster." He expressed support for establishing a humanitarian corridor to allow civilians to escape and for providing humanitarian aid to the area. However, he also defended Israel's right to respond to the Hamas attack.
- Biden stated his belief that Hamas must be eliminated and that a two-state solution is necessary for peace in the region. He also warned Hezbollah and Iran against escalating the conflict.
- Biden expressed concern about the dysfunction in Congress, particularly the actions of the "Maga Republicans," and how it could negatively impact the United States' ability to address global challenges.
- Biden emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia, arguing that it is crucial for the safety of American interests and the stability of Europe.
- Biden reiterated his commitment to running for re-election, citing the opportunity to achieve peace in the Middle East and to contain Russia's aggression.
2022 (Part 1)
- President Biden addressed the current state of the economy, acknowledging the high inflation rate but emphasizing the positive aspects like job creation and manufacturing growth. He expressed optimism about the future, stating that inflation will be controlled and that the economy will continue to grow.
- Biden discussed the ongoing pandemic, stating that it is over despite the continued presence of the virus. He pointed to the return of events like the Detroit Auto Show as evidence of a return to normalcy.
- Regarding the war in Ukraine, Biden expressed unwavering support for Ukraine and condemned Russia's actions. He stated that the US will continue to provide aid to Ukraine for as long as necessary and that Russia's actions are becoming increasingly embarrassing.
- Biden addressed the potential use of chemical or tactical nuclear weapons by Russia, stating that the consequences would be severe and that the US response would be consequential. He declined to specify the nature of the response.
- Biden discussed the US commitment to Taiwan, reaffirming the "one China policy" but stating that the US would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. This statement contradicted previous US policy and sparked controversy.
- Biden commented on the classified documents found at former President Trump's home, expressing concern about the potential compromise of national security. He stated that he had not been briefed on the specifics of the documents and that he would not interfere with the Justice Department's investigation.
2022 (Part 2)
- President Biden expressed his intention to run for re-election in 2024 but acknowledged that the decision is not yet final. He emphasized that he is focused on his current job and will make a decision after the upcoming midterm elections.
- When asked about his age and fitness for the presidency, Biden responded that he is in good shape and that his actions speak louder than words. He pointed to his ability to work with NATO allies and his legislative successes as evidence of his capabilities.
- Biden acknowledged the low approval ratings he faces, attributing them to the difficult times the country is experiencing, including the ongoing pandemic and its impact on the American psyche. He also highlighted the challenges he inherited upon taking office, including a low vaccination rate and a difficult economic situation.
- Biden expressed his love for his son Hunter and acknowledged his struggles with addiction. He stated that Hunter's personal issues have not affected his presidency or the United States.
- Biden discussed the recent bipartisan gun legislation passed, emphasizing his commitment to further gun control measures, including a ban on assault weapons. He expressed his frustration with the ongoing gun violence in the country and the impact it has on children.
- Biden reflected on the changing political landscape, noting the increased polarization and personal attacks in politics. He acknowledged that bipartisanship is more challenging today than in the past but expressed hope that progress can still be made.
- Biden shared his personal experiences with tragedy, including the loss of his wife and daughter in a car accident and his son Beau to cancer. He stated that these experiences have motivated him to continue serving and to make a difference in the world.
2020 (Part 1)
- Joe Biden discusses the state of the race and his strategy for winning the election. He acknowledges the closeness of the race and emphasizes the importance of voter turnout. He also expresses concern about efforts to delegitimize the election and intimidate voters.
- Biden outlines his plans for addressing systemic racism and economic inequality. He proposes a 15% corporate minimum tax to fund initiatives like free college tuition and community college access. He also emphasizes the need for institutional changes beyond police reform.
- Kamala Harris addresses concerns about her progressive policies and their potential impact on a Biden administration. She clarifies that she will bring her perspective as a Black woman and prosecutor to the table, but she will not push for policies that Biden does not support. She emphasizes her commitment to expanding the Affordable Care Act and criticizes Trump's efforts to dismantle it.
- Both candidates discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and their plans for addressing it. Biden criticizes Trump's handling of the pandemic and emphasizes the need for increased testing and tracing. He also proposes spending $200 billion to help schools reopen safely.
- Biden outlines his economic plans, including raising taxes on corporations and wealthy individuals. He argues that these measures are necessary to fund his social programs and address economic inequality. He also criticizes Trump's tax cuts for corporations and wealthy Americans.
- Both candidates discuss foreign policy and their views on the biggest threats facing the United States. Biden criticizes Trump's approach to foreign policy, arguing that it has weakened America's standing in the world. He identifies Russia and China as the biggest threats to American security.
- Biden addresses the issue of court packing and his plans for reforming the Supreme Court. He proposes a bipartisan commission to study the issue and make recommendations. He emphasizes the need to prevent the court from becoming a political football.
- Biden responds to allegations about his son Hunter's foreign business dealings. He dismisses these allegations as a smear campaign and suggests that they are part of a Russian disinformation effort.
2020 (Part 2)
- In this segment of the 60 Minutes interview, Joe Biden addresses concerns about his age and health, emphasizing his fitness for the presidency. He also highlights Kamala Harris's qualifications and readiness to assume the presidency if necessary, emphasizing her experience and strong character.
- Biden discusses the significance of having a woman of color as Vice President, believing it will inspire change and challenge perceptions about who can hold positions of power. He emphasizes the importance of representation and breaking down barriers.
- Biden describes his relationship with Kamala Harris, highlighting her role as a trusted advisor and emphasizing their frequent communication. He also addresses President Trump's attacks on Harris, calling them predictable and racist, citing a pattern of behavior that includes questioning Barack Obama's identity and making inflammatory remarks about minorities.
- Biden refutes the notion that he is anti-police, stating his support for increased funding for law enforcement. He condemns violence and destruction, emphasizing the importance of upholding law and order while also advocating for dignity and inclusion. He criticizes President Trump's attempts to exploit fear and division, arguing that the country is better than that and should strive for greater inclusivity.
2019
- Joe Biden, a seasoned politician with decades of experience in the Senate and as Vice President, is running for President in 2020. He faces a crowded field of Democratic candidates, including Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, who are appealing to younger voters with more progressive policies.
- Biden emphasizes his experience and ability to lead on day one, drawing comparisons to Barack Obama's presidency. He rejects the notion that he is simply offering more of the same, arguing that he has a strong record of accomplishment and understands the issues.
- Biden criticizes his opponents' proposals, particularly Medicare for All, arguing that it would raise taxes on the middle class. He also criticizes President Trump's tax cuts, claiming they primarily benefited the wealthy.
- Biden expresses concern about Russian interference in the election, highlighting President Trump's reluctance to address the issue and his encouragement of foreign involvement. He criticizes Facebook for allowing Trump campaign ads that he considers to be false.
- Biden defends his son Hunter's business dealings in Ukraine, stating that he never discussed them with his son and that Hunter did nothing wrong. He calls on President Trump to release his tax returns, accusing him of hypocrisy regarding corruption.
- Biden acknowledges the challenges of running a campaign against President Trump, who has repeatedly attacked him and his family. He emphasizes his commitment to public service and his desire to restore integrity to the White House.
- Biden expresses confidence in his ability to win the Democratic nomination, despite facing stiff competition from Warren and Sanders. He acknowledges the need to raise more funds to compete with them.
- Biden defends his performance in the debates, arguing that the format makes it difficult to respond effectively to attacks. He dismisses concerns about his age, emphasizing his experience and wisdom.
- Biden expresses concern about the potential consequences of four more years of President Trump's presidency, arguing that it would fundamentally change the country for the worse. He believes that it would take a generation or more to recover from the damage.
2015
- Joe Biden announced his decision to not run for president in 2016. He cited the recent loss of his son, Beau, as the primary reason for his decision. He felt that he was not emotionally prepared to handle the demands of a presidential campaign while still grieving.
- Biden expressed his belief that he could have won the presidency if he had run. However, he felt that he could not commit the necessary time and energy to a successful campaign.
- Biden discussed the emotional toll of his son's death and how it impacted his decision. He shared a poignant story about his granddaughter's reaction to his potential absence, highlighting the personal struggles he faced.
- Biden emphasized his desire to continue influencing the Democratic Party and the country. He expressed his intention to remain active in politics, even without seeking elected office.
- Biden addressed the tension between himself and Hillary Clinton. He denied any personal animosity towards her and stated that his decision not to run was not based on her candidacy.
- Biden expressed his disappointment with Donald Trump's rhetoric on immigration. He believed that Trump's attacks on immigrants were harmful and not representative of the American people.
- Biden outlined his priorities for the remaining months of his vice presidency. He expressed his commitment to working on cancer research and finding common ground with Congress on budget issues.
- Biden expressed optimism about his future. He believed that he was still "moving up" and had much to contribute to the country.
2009
- Joe Biden, the Vice President, is known for his experience and his tendency to be outspoken. He has been described as a "gaff machine" and a "loose cannon," but the White House sees his directness as an asset.
- Biden has adjusted to his new role as Vice President, finding that he has to be more careful about his actions and communications. He has been deeply involved in major decisions, offering his advice to President Obama.
- Biden has been tasked with overseeing the stimulus package, ensuring that the money is spent wisely. He has been actively involved in communicating with mayors and governors to ensure compliance.
- Biden has been criticized for his tendency to make gaffes, but he and President Obama have a good working relationship and are able to discuss any issues openly.
- Biden has been a strong advocate for the Obama administration's policies, particularly in the area of foreign policy. He has defended the president's approach to dealing with adversaries and has emphasized the importance of closing Guantanamo Bay.
- Biden is a strong supporter of the military and has a personal connection to the war in Iraq, as his son Bo is serving in the Army National Guard.
- Biden is known for his warmth and his ability to connect with people, particularly children. He is also known for his humble background and his commitment to working-class Americans.
- Biden is optimistic about the future of the country and believes that the stimulus package will help to create jobs and improve the economy. He is confident that the administration will be able to reduce the national debt.
2008
- The chapter covers the 2008 Democratic National Convention, where Barack Obama was nominated as the first African-American presidential candidate for a major party.
- The interview features Obama and his running mate, Joe Biden, discussing their campaign strategy, their views on the Republican ticket, and their personal experiences.
- The interview highlights the importance of experience in politics, the need for a strong vice president, and the challenges of running against an unpopular administration.