First Lady Jill Biden, in a recent interview with NBC News, reflected on her husband, President Joe Biden’s decision to bow out of the presidential race.
She called the decision “historic” and that both she and the president are at peace with the choice.
“I’m totally at peace. And so is he,” she said. When asked whether she felt relieved that her husband would no longer be under the weight of a campaign, she replied, “Yeah, I guess I am.”
Reflecting on Joe Biden’s long career in government, she said, “He’ll miss it, but I think he’s done a great job.”
The First lady also highlighted the need for unity and a “peaceful transfer of power” as the nation faces deep political divisions.
She urged Americans to exercise their right to vote, she remarked, “I think we have to come together. I think we have to vote. As Americans, that’s a right we’ve been given, and we must take advantage of it. Then, we have to have a peaceful transfer of power.”
Her comments came after former President Donald Trump continued to falsely claim the 2020 election was “rigged” and defended those involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. Trump has also remained unclear about whether he will accept the results of the upcoming election.
Political tensions have escalated further after a second alleged assassination attempt on Trump, which occurred just days before the interview.
Politicians from both sides of the aisle have expressed grave concerns about the rising threat of political violence.
Despite her concerns about the nation’s current political climate, Jill Biden expressed hope for the future.
“There’s so much going on in the world that’s heavy, but hopefully, over time, things will ease, and someone else will take the reins,” she said.
The interview took place during a tour of “The People’s House,” a new interactive exhibit at the White House, which the First Lady helped develop alongside the White House Historical Association.
Jill Biden, a college educator, said the exhibit’s hands-on approach aligns with how people learn best: through experience, not just listening. The tour will air on “Saturday TODAY.”