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Biden Reflects on South Carolina’s Role in His Presidency as He Ends His Term

As President Joe Biden prepares to leave office, he spent his final day in the state that played a pivotal role in securing his position in the White House—South Carolina. On the eve of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, Biden took the time to express his gratitude once again for the state’s unwavering support that ultimately shaped his successful 2020 campaign.

A Heartfelt Thank You to South Carolina

Biden’s final day in office took him to some of South Carolina’s most significant locations, including the Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston and the International African American Museum in downtown Charleston. His visits were a nod to the critical role the state’s voters, particularly its Black community, played in his rise to the presidency.

“I could not be standing here, I would not be standing here, and that’s not hyperbole, at this pulpit were it not for Jim Clyburn,” Biden told the congregation at the Royal Missionary Baptist Church. The reference was to Congressman Jim Clyburn, a longtime Democratic leader from South Carolina, whose endorsement in 2020 revitalized Biden’s campaign after a slow start.

Joe Biden South Carolina

Clyburn’s backing proved to be a game-changer for Biden, especially during the South Carolina primary, where Biden triumphed, defeating his opponents by a wide margin. That victory helped propel him toward the Democratic nomination, ultimately leading to his win over then-President Donald Trump in the general election.

When Biden arrived in Charleston, he shared an emotional embrace with Clyburn, whom he called his best friend and a steadfast ally. The connection between the two men was evident as Clyburn praised Biden’s efforts during his four years in office, acknowledging that the president had truly understood the needs of the American people.

Reflecting on South Carolina’s Influence

For Biden, South Carolina was more than just the state that secured his nomination—it was the springboard that launched him into the presidency. In February 2020, Biden’s overwhelming victory in the South Carolina Democratic primary served as a critical turning point in his campaign, following a series of early setbacks.

At the International African American Museum, Biden spoke of how the state’s Black voters helped guide his path to the White House, reiterating his gratitude for their decisive support. Clyburn, in his remarks, once again emphasized the bond between Biden and the people of South Carolina, stating, “I know Joe, we know Joe, but most importantly Joe knows us.” It was a testament to the deep relationship Biden had cultivated with the state’s electorate, which proved to be a significant factor in his political resurgence.

Although Biden faced setbacks after the South Carolina primary, including a disappointing debate performance against Trump, it was the state’s early and enthusiastic support that gave him the momentum to continue his campaign. Despite some turbulent moments, Biden’s victory in South Carolina laid the foundation for his eventual success in securing the Democratic nomination and, ultimately, the presidency.

The Ceasefire and Hostage Release: A Final Note on Global Affairs

In addition to reflecting on his time in office and his relationship with South Carolina, Biden also addressed current global events during his visit. He spoke to reporters about the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which led to the release of three hostages on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Biden’s remarks touched on the importance of diplomatic efforts and the ongoing challenges facing international relations. As he prepared to leave office, the announcement of the ceasefire was a moment of both relief and reflection for the outgoing president, underscoring his administration’s continued engagement on the global stage.

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