Biden Addresses Calls To Exit Presidential Race at High-Stakes NATO Press Conference | WSJ

NATO Summit and US Leadership

• President Biden emphasized the success of the NATO Summit and the importance of NATO in deterring aggression.
• He highlighted the significance of the United States' leadership and commitment to NATO, contrasting it with his predecessor's stance.
• Biden emphasized the strength of NATO with the addition of Finland and Sweden and reaffirmed the sacredness of Article 5.

Domestic Policies and Economy

• President Biden provided an update on the US economy, noting a decrease in inflation and efforts to address corporate greed.
• He criticized his predecessor's proposed 10% tariff, stating that it would cost American families an additional $2,500 per year.
• Biden defends his economic policies and highlights the progress made during his presidency.
• He emphasizes the importance of supporting the middle class and working class, and criticizes corporate profits doubling since the pandemic.
• Biden mentions his efforts to bring back the computer chip industry to the United States and highlights the investments made in computer chip manufacturing.

Foreign Policy and International Relations

• Biden discussed progress made in securing the southern border and securing a ceasefire in Gaza, with a framework agreed upon by both Israel and Hamas.
• On the topic of Ukraine, Biden discusses the limitations on Ukrainian use of American weapons and emphasizes the need to strike a balance in providing support.
• Biden acknowledges concerns in Europe about the possibility of former President Trump winning the next election and potentially weakening NATO or abandoning support for Ukraine.
• President Biden emphasizes his qualifications to ensure Ukraine's success and maintain a strong European alliance.
• Finland and Sweden's accession to NATO, with Biden's support, has strengthened the alliance.
• Biden highlights his efforts in building a coalition of 50 nations to support Ukraine and forging partnerships with countries in Europe, Asia, and the Pacific.
• China's involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict is discussed, with concerns about their provision of critical goods to Russia.
• The need for a new industrial policy in the West is raised, focusing on building munitions capacity and reducing reliance on external sources for weapons production.
• Biden expresses readiness to engage with both Putin and Xi Jinping if they are willing to change their behavior, but he emphasizes that Putin has not shown any inclination to do so.
• The US President discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and expressed concern about Russia's control over public communication and the unlikelihood of a near-term fundamental change in Russia.
• Regarding the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, the President reflected on his efforts during the conflict, including engaging with regional leaders and proposing a two-state solution.
• He expressed disappointment in certain aspects, such as the unsuccessful implementation of the proposed port in Cyprus, and criticized Israel's occupation of the Gaza Strip.

Political Future and Reelection Campaign

• Biden addressed concerns about his political future, stating that he believes he is the most qualified person to run for president and expressing confidence in his ability to defeat Donald Trump again.
• He dismissed suggestions that his cognitive decline is damaging to America's standing, highlighting the success of the NATO conference and the positive feedback from other world leaders.
• Biden acknowledged concerns from friends and supporters about his decision to stay in the race but stated that he is focused on completing the job he started and not on his legacy.
• The President emphasized the importance of demonstrating his fitness and preparedness through public events and highlighted the extensive campaign organization in place.
• He also mentioned his extensive experience in the Senate, including leadership positions in key committees, as a factor in his decision to run for re-election.
• Biden confirmed that he has overwhelming support from delegates for his nomination at the upcoming Democratic convention.
• He acknowledged that some local candidates may distance themselves from him due to self-interest, but polling data suggests he is well-positioned to win against Trump.
• Biden expressed confidence in his qualifications and fundraising efforts but acknowledged that the campaign is still in its early stages.
• He reaffirmed his confidence in Vice President Harris and stated that he would only reconsider his decision to stay in the race if polls showed he had no chance of winning.

Other Notable Points

• Biden praises Vice President Kamala Harris's qualifications and readiness to serve as president if necessary.
• Biden addresses concerns about his age and energy levels, clarifying that he intends to pace himself better and not overextend himself.
• President Biden discussed his plans to visit the Johnson Library and make the case for preserving civil rights, civil liberties, and women's rights.
• Biden addressed questions about his cognitive health, stating that he undergoes regular neurological exams and is confident in his mental capacity.