In a stunning development, President Joe Biden has announced that he will not seek reelection in the upcoming 2024 presidential race. In a heartfelt letter posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Biden emphasized that his decision was made in the best interest of his party and the nation.

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President,” Biden wrote. “And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”

This announcement comes after weeks of mounting concern about the 81-year-old president’s stamina and mental capabilities, which had cast doubt on his ability to campaign effectively against former President Donald Trump and to govern the country for another four years. Biden’s decision is also likely to raise questions about his capacity to fulfill the duties of the presidency for the remainder of his term.

Biden’s withdrawal from the race marks the first time in decades that a sitting US president has opted not to run for reelection, echoing President Lyndon Johnson’s decision in 1968. The announcement follows a tumultuous period in the political campaign, including an attempt on Trump’s life, which temporarily shifted focus away from Biden’s campaign struggles.

The President’s performance at a June 27 CNN debate, where he appeared tired and confused, had intensified concerns about his candidacy. His debate performance led to a significant drop in support from congressional Democrats and major donors, with many urging him to reconsider his reelection bid.

In his letter, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee, stating, “Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”

The news of Biden’s decision caught many by surprise, including senior members of his campaign and White House staff who were informed shortly before the letter was posted. Reactions from Democratic leaders have been overwhelmingly supportive, praising Biden for his service and dedication to the country. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer lauded Biden as a “true patriot and great American,” while California Governor Gavin Newsom called him an “extraordinary, history-making president.”

As the Democratic Party begins to rally around Harris, other party elders are expected to follow Biden’s lead and offer their endorsements. The decision sets the stage for a new chapter in the 2024 election, with Democrats focused on uniting to prevent a Trump comeback.

The Republican response has been critical, with NRCC Chairman Richard Hudson calling Biden’s decision a “scandal of historic proportions” and questioning his fitness to continue serving as president.

Biden’s announcement marks the end of a political era, capping off a half-century career that saw him rise from one of the youngest senators in US history to its oldest president.