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Hoyer Statement on President Biden's Farewell Address

January 15, 2025

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement tonight after President Joseph R. Biden Jr. delivered his farewell address to the nation:

"President Biden's farewell address tonight was the culmination of his five decades of service to the American people. Over the past four years, President Biden led our nation out of one of the deadliest pandemics and worst economic crises in American history. I was proud to work with him and Democrats in Congress to build back the American economy even stronger than before the pandemic by securing historic investments to rebuild our infrastructure, revitalize domestic manufacturing, expand access to affordable health care, combat the climate crisis, build safer communities, and much more. Because of President Biden's decisive leadership and visionary Investing in America agenda, our economy saw consistent growth and a record 16.6 million jobs created since January 2021 – a far cry from the recession so many Republicans predicted.

"The Biden Administration's accomplishments extend far beyond our shores. President Biden restored America's reputation as a global leader on democracy, climate change, human rights, and many of the world's other most pressing issues. From Europe to the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific, his administration strengthened our alliances around the globe so that we can better face the challenges of the twenty-first century. Crucially, President Biden rallied broad coalitions to defend Ukraine after Vladimir Putin's criminal invasion and Israel after Hamas' horrific October 7 attack.

"As was the case with Harry Truman and many of our nation's most celebrated presidents, America's appreciation for President Biden will only grow with time. His accomplishments, too numerous to list in full, will continue to improve lives for generations to come. It will take decades to realize the full scope of their positive impact. It is already clear, however, that history will remember President Biden as a leader of great character who devoted his life to preserving democracy. I thank him for striving to show the country and the world that hate and fear need not define our politics and corrupt the soul of America. 

"It is a privilege to call Joe Biden my friend and my president. On behalf of a grateful nation, I wish him and his family all the best in the years to come."