President Joe Biden will run for a second term in the 2024 presidential election.
White House press secretary Jen Psaki confirmed the news in a short statement on Monday, November 22.
"He is. That's his intention," Psaki said when questioned on the subject. The statement was made aboard Air Force One, while Biden and his staff were en route to Fort Bragg, NC for a Thanksgiving ceremony with US service members.
The announcement comes amid intense speculations as to whether Biden would step aside to let another Democrat run in the 2024 presidential race.
In recent months, the incumbent president has faced a fall in approval ratings, with 42.8% approving and 52.2% disapproving of his performance in the oval office so far. Infighting in Congress has also raised concerns as to his capabilities as president.
Many also fear that Biden, 79, is too old to take on another campaign and a four-year term. If he were to run in 2024, he would once again be the oldest ever US president to be sworn into office.
Recent health complications have meant Biden had to temporarily cede the presidency to Vice President Kamala Harris while he underwent a colonoscopy. Harris became the first Black and Asian-American woman to hold the position.
If Biden is to run, his most likely Republican rival will be Donald Trump, however, the former president has yet to announce a 2024 run.
The Telegraph reports that Biden is more likely to run if he is going up against former president Trump, as he believes he is the person most capable of beating him.
Reactions to the news that Biden wants to run again in 2024 have been mixed on social media. Many voiced their concerns over the president's age on Twitter.
"At age 82? Oh dear," wrote one user.
"Love Joe. But no. There is a time to step aside. He's doing great things but it's time for a young candidate!" commented another.
Others were more optimistic about the news, tweeting their support of president Biden.
"And rightfully so. We need him!" wrote one person.
"Best news I've heard all year!' added another user.
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