Podcast Summary: "Joe Biden's Complicated Legacy"
Consider This from NPR
Release Date: January 19, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of NPR's "Consider This," host Scott Detrow delves into the multifaceted legacy of President Joe Biden as his term comes to an end. Joined by NPR White House correspondent Asma Khalid, Detrow explores Biden's accomplishments, the challenges he faced, and the complexities surrounding his unpopularity despite significant legislative achievements.

Biden’s Final Day and Farewell Address

As Joe Biden prepares to leave office, the episode opens with Detrow noting the end of Biden's extensive career in Washington, D.C., spanning over half a century.

“On Monday at noon, Joe Biden becomes a private citizen. He's been holding office in Washington, D.C. for more than half a century.”
— Scott Detrow [00:01]

Biden’s farewell address from the Oval Office emphasizes his belief in America's enduring institutions and the importance of citizens safeguarding democracy.

“After 50 years of public service, I give you my word, I still believe in the idea for which this nation stands, a nation where the strengths of our institutions and the character of our people matter and must endure. Now it's your turn to stand guard. May you all be the keepers of the flame.”
— Joe Biden [04:24]

Warnings in the Farewell Address

In a surprising turn, Biden issues a dire warning about the rise of an oligarchy in America, coining this term within an American context for the first time.

“Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy.”
— Joe Biden [05:00]

Asma Khalid highlights the significance of this message, noting Biden's concern over the disproportionate power held by ultra-rich individuals and its potential impact on misinformation and policy-making, particularly regarding climate change.

Biden’s Legacy: Accomplishments vs. Unpopularity

Despite low approval ratings throughout his presidency, Biden leaves office with notable legislative accomplishments that promise long-term benefits.

“It will take time to feel the full impact of all we've done together. But the seeds are planted and they'll grow and they'll bloom for decades to come.”
— Joe Biden [02:02]

Asma Khalid discusses Biden's significant investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and semiconductor manufacturing, framing these as foundational changes aimed at reducing America's reliance on competitors like China.

“He has made certainly massive investments in things like infrastructure, clean energy, and semiconductors. Most presidents get one major bill through Congress in their first term. Biden managed to get several legislative wins through to really reach these sort of historic levels of spending.”
— Asma Khalid [09:58]

Reasons for Biden’s Unpopularity

The episode examines the factors contributing to Biden's unpopularity, despite his legislative successes.

“A majority of Americans disapprove of how Biden has performed as president on a whole range of issues.”
— Asma Khalid [06:20]

Key issues cited include:

1. Inflation: Biden faced criticism, particularly from Republicans, for rising inflation rates. Although the Federal Reserve primarily controls inflation, Biden's administration was blamed for the economic discomfort.

2. Immigration: The handling of immigration saw a surge in unauthorized border crossings early in his term, leading to perceptions of a mishandled response.

3. Foreign Policy: Biden's approach to the war in Gaza and the subsequent hostage deal received mixed reactions. While a ceasefire was achieved, Asma Khalid points out the ambiguity regarding whether this outcome was due to Biden’s efforts or Donald Trump's influence.

“He did manage to get this ceasefire hostage deal through last week just as he was leaving office. But it is a plan that the incoming president, Donald Trump is taking credit for.”
— Asma Khalid [07:13]

Biden’s Decision to Run for Re-election

Despite unpopularity and concerns over his age, Biden chose to seek re-election in 2020. Asma Khalid explores the motivations behind this decision.

“Biden felt that he was the best option to defeat Trump, but that decision, insistence on running for re-election and not dropping out until July, prevented a real Democratic primary from taking place and shortened up the campaign for his party.”
— Asma Khalid [09:26]

Biden articulated that the gravity of the national situation regarding the economy, foreign policy, and domestic divisions necessitated his continued leadership.

“What changed was the gravity of the situation I inherited in terms of the economy, our foreign policy and domestic division.”
— Joe Biden [09:26]

Long-Term Accomplishments and Future Impact

Looking ahead, Asma Khalid emphasizes the enduring impact of Biden’s policies, particularly his embrace of industrial policy to reshape the American economy.

“Biden openly embraced industrial policy, spurring investments from private companies. A whole range of new projects and investments have been announced in a range of states, including a number of Republican-controlled congressional districts.”
— Asma Khalid [10:58]

These investments are poised to strengthen national security by ensuring the United States maintains autonomy in critical industries.

“The seeds are planted and they'll grow and they'll bloom for decades to come.”
— Joe Biden [02:02]

Conclusion

As Joe Biden concludes his presidency, "Consider This" paints a picture of a leader whose tenure was marked by significant legislative achievements overshadowed by persistent unpopularity. The episode underscores the complexity of Biden's legacy, balancing immediate public dissatisfaction with the promise of long-term progress stemming from his administration's policies.

“Whether or not you approve of Biden as president, it is an accurate assessment that he has made certainly massive investments in things like infrastructure, clean energy and semiconductors.”
— Asma Khalid [09:58]

Produced by: Jordan Marie Smith and Briana Scott
Edited by: Roberta Rampton, Adam Rainey, and Jeanette Woods
Executive Producer: Sammy Gadigan

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• “On Monday at noon, Joe Biden becomes a private citizen. He's been holding office in Washington, D.C. for more than half a century.” — Scott Detrow [00:01]

• “Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy.” — Joe Biden [05:00]

• “It will take time to feel the full impact of all we've done together. But the seeds are planted and they'll grow and they'll bloom for decades to come.” — Joe Biden [02:02]

Final Thoughts

"Joe Biden's Complicated Legacy" provides a nuanced exploration of a presidency that achieved significant policy milestones amidst challenges in public perception and political dynamics. Listening to this episode offers valuable insights into the enduring effects of Biden's administration and the intricate balance between immediate approval and long-term impact.