Joe Biden, the 46th U.S. president, has had a long career in American politics as a member of the Democratic Party. Before his presidency, he served as vice president under Barack Obama (2009-2017) and as a U.S. Senator for Delaware (1973-2009).
November 20, 1942: Birth of Joe Biden
On November 20, 1942, Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, marking the beginning of his life journey.
1946: Biden Family Moves to Long Island
In the fall of 1946, the Biden family experienced a period of affluence, moving to a home in Garden City, Long Island.
1953: Biden Family Relocates to Delaware
In 1953, at the age of ten, Joe Biden moved with his family from Pennsylvania to Claymont, Delaware, marking a significant geographical shift in his childhood.
1961: High School Graduation
Joe Biden graduated from Archmere Academy in Claymont, Delaware, in 1961, marking the end of his high school years.
1965: University Graduation
Joe Biden earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delaware in 1965, majoring in history and political science.
August 27, 1966: Marriage to Neilia Hunter
On August 27, 1966, Joe Biden married Neilia Hunter, a fellow student at Syracuse University, marking the beginning of their life together.
1967: Using Passages from Robert F. Kennedy's Speech
During his 1988 Presidential campaign, it was revealed that Biden had used passages from a 1967 speech by Robert F. Kennedy without proper attribution. This revelation contributed to the growing scrutiny of Biden's past and his eventual withdrawal from the race.
1968: Nixon's Non-Incumbent Vice Presidential Win
In 1968, Richard Nixon became the first non-incumbent vice president to be elected president.
1968: Law School Graduation and Plagiarism Incident
Joe Biden received his Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law in 1968, but his academic record was marked by a plagiarism incident during his first year.
1969: Admitted to the Delaware Bar
In 1969, Joe Biden was admitted to the Delaware bar, a crucial step in his legal career.
1970: William Roth's First Election to the Senate
William Roth was first elected to the Senate in 1970, becoming Joe Biden's senior senator from Delaware.
1970: Elected to New Castle County Council
In 1970, Joe Biden's political career began with his election to the New Castle County Council, a testament to his early engagement in public service.
January 5, 1971: Assumes Office on New Castle County Council
On January 5, 1971, Joe Biden officially began his term on the New Castle County Council, marking the start of his service in this local government position.
December 18, 1972: Fatal Car Accident of Neilia and Naomi Biden
On December 18, 1972, tragedy struck Joe Biden's family when his wife, Neilia, and one-year-old daughter, Naomi, were killed in a car accident while Christmas shopping. The accident also injured his two young sons, Beau and Hunter.
1972: First Election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1972, marking the beginning of his long career in the Senate.
1972: Joe Biden's Election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden's victory in the 1972 U.S. Senate election marked the beginning of his long and influential tenure as a senator.
January 1, 1973: Concludes Service on County Council
Joe Biden's tenure on the New Castle County Council came to an end on January 1, 1973, as he prepared for his transition to the U.S. Senate.
January 1973: Swearing-In as Senator
In January 1973, Joe Biden was sworn in as a U.S. Senator at the Delaware Division of the Wilmington Medical Center. At 30, he was the seventh youngest senator in U.S. history.
1973: Joe Biden's Senate Career Begins
In 1973, Joe Biden embarked on his long and impactful career as a U.S. senator, representing the state of Delaware.
1974: Early Senate Focus and Political Views
In 1974, Biden was known for focusing on consumer protection, environmental issues, and government accountability. He identified as liberal on certain issues and conservative on others.
1975: Meeting Jill Tracy Jacobs
Joe Biden met his future wife, Jill Tracy Jacobs, on a blind date in 1975.
1976: Endorsement of Jimmy Carter
Joe Biden was the first U.S. senator to endorse Jimmy Carter for president in the 1976 Democratic primary.
1976: Using a Passage from Hubert Humphrey's Speech
During his 1988 Presidential campaign, it was revealed that Biden had used a passage from a 1976 speech by Hubert Humphrey without proper attribution. This revelation contributed to the growing scrutiny of Biden's past and his eventual withdrawal from the race.
1976: Opposition to Race-Integration Busing
In the mid-1970s, Biden became known for his opposition to race-integration busing, a stance influenced by his Delaware constituents' views.
June 17, 1977: Marriage to Jill Tracy Jacobs
On June 17, 1977, Joe Biden married teacher Jill Tracy Jacobs. The ceremony was held at the United Nations chapel in New York.
1977: Co-Sponsoring Amendment on Busing Funds
Biden co-sponsored an amendment in 1977 aimed at closing loopholes in a measure restricting federal funds for busing.
1978: President Carter Signs Busing Amendment
President Carter signed the amendment co-sponsored by Biden, which further restricted the use of federal funds for busing, in 1978.
1978: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate in 1978.
1979: Work on SALT II Treaty
Following Congress's failure to ratify the SALT II Treaty, Biden engaged with Soviet foreign minister Andrei Gromyko to address concerns and negotiate changes.
1981: Becoming Ranking Minority Member of Senate Judiciary Committee
Biden assumed the role of ranking minority member of the Senate Judiciary Committee in 1981.
1981: Becoming Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee
Joe Biden became ranking minority member of the Senate Judiciary Committee in 1981.
1983: Last New Federal Holiday Before Juneteenth
Before the establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, the last time a new federal holiday was declared in the United States was in 1983.
1984: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate in 1984.
1984: Passage of the Comprehensive Crime Control Act
Biden played a key role as a Democratic floor manager in the successful passage of the Comprehensive Crime Control Act in 1984.
June 9, 1987: Announcing Candidacy for President
On June 9, 1987, Biden formally announced his candidacy for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination. His moderate image, strong speaking skills, and high profile as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee made him a formidable contender.
September 23, 1987: Withdrawing from the Presidential Race
On September 23, 1987, Biden withdrew from the 1988 presidential race after facing scrutiny over plagiarism accusations and exaggerations about his academic record. The controversy surrounding his past overshadowed his campaign and ultimately led to his decision to withdraw.
1987: Becoming Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee
Joe Biden became Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee in 1987.
February 1988: Surgery for Brain Aneurysm and Pulmonary Embolism
Biden underwent surgery in February 1988 to address a brain aneurysm and subsequently experienced a pulmonary embolism, a serious complication. He required a second surgery in May and spent seven months recovering away from the Senate.
1988: Running for President
In 1988, Biden ran for the Democratic nomination for President. His campaign was ultimately unsuccessful.
1988: Accusations of Plagiarism
In 1988, Biden's presidential campaign faced a significant setback when he was accused of plagiarizing parts of a speech by British Labour Party leader Neil Kinnock. This incident, along with other instances of borrowing from speeches without attribution, damaged his campaign's credibility.
1988: Presiding Over Robert Bork's Supreme Court Nomination Hearings
In 1988, Biden, as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, presided over the contentious Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Robert Bork. Despite initially supporting a hypothetical Bork nomination, Biden reversed his stance, drawing criticism from conservatives. He ultimately opposed Bork's nomination, arguing that Bork's originalist views clashed with the Constitution's provisions for liberty and privacy. Biden's handling of the hearings was praised for its fairness and courage.
1988: First Presidential Bid
In 1988, Joe Biden made his first attempt to secure the Democratic presidential nomination, a significant step in his political aspirations.
1990: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate in 1990.
1991: Growing Interest in the Yugoslav Wars
In 1991, Biden's interest in the Yugoslav Wars intensified after learning about Serbian abuses during the Croatian War of Independence. This marked the beginning of his significant involvement in Balkan policy.
1991: Start of Teaching at Widener University
Joe Biden began co-teaching a seminar on constitutional law at Widener University School of Law in 1991, continuing in this role until 2008.
1991: Clarence Thomas's Supreme Court Nomination Hearings
During Clarence Thomas's confirmation hearings in 1991, Biden's complex questioning style drew criticism. The hearings became highly controversial when Anita Hill accused Thomas of sexual harassment. While Biden was aware of the allegations, Hill's initial reluctance to testify and Biden's decision not to allow testimony from other witnesses drew criticism from women's groups. Thomas was ultimately confirmed, with Biden opposing the nomination.
1992: Last Incumbent President Defeat
The last time an incumbent president was defeated was in 1992 when Bill Clinton won against George H. W. Bush.
April 1993: Meeting with Slobodan Milošević
In April 1993, Biden held a tense meeting with Serbian leader Slobodan Milošević, aiming to address the ongoing Yugoslav Wars. The meeting reflected Biden's deep concern about the conflict and his efforts to find a resolution.
1993: Vote on Homosexuality in the Military
Biden voted in favor of a 1993 provision that barred gay individuals from serving in the armed forces.
1993: Alleged Sexual Assault Incident
In 1993, an alleged sexual assault incident involving Biden and Tara Reade was said to have taken place. The incident came to light many years later and remains a point of controversy.
1994: Passage of Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act and Violence Against Women Act
Biden was instrumental in the passage of two significant pieces of legislation in 1994: the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, which included an assault weapons ban, and the Violence Against Women Act.
1995: End of Chairing and Return to Ranking Member of Senate Judiciary Committe
Joe Biden concluded his chairmanship of the Senate Judiciary Committee in 1995, returning to the role of ranking minority member.
1996: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate in 1996.
1996: Vote for the Defense of Marriage Act
Biden voted for the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, which defined marriage as a union between a man and a woman for federal purposes.
1997: End of Term as Ranking Minority Member of Senate Judiciary Committee
Joe Biden's term as ranking minority member of the Senate Judiciary Committee ended in 1997.
1997: Becoming Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 1997, Biden became the ranking minority member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, a position that allowed him to shape foreign policy debates and demonstrate his expertise on international affairs.
1999: Supporting NATO Intervention in Kosovo
During the 1999 Kosovo War, Biden strongly supported NATO's bombing of FR Yugoslavia. He co-sponsored a resolution with John McCain, advocating for the use of all necessary force, including ground troops, to address Yugoslav actions against ethnic Albanians in Kosovo.
2000: Clinton Vetoes Bankruptcy Bill Supported by Biden
President Clinton vetoed a bankruptcy bill supported by Biden and credit card companies in 2000.
2000: William Roth's Defeat in Senate Election
William Roth, Joe Biden's senior senator from Delaware, was defeated in the 2000 Senate election.
June 2001: Chairing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
From June 2001, Biden chaired the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He was known for his liberal internationalist stance and his ability to collaborate with Republicans. During this time, he engaged with numerous world leaders and became a prominent voice on foreign policy issues.
October 2002: Voting for the Iraq War Authorization
In October 2002, Biden voted in favor of the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq, thereby supporting the U.S. invasion of Iraq. As chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he played a role in gathering testimony that ultimately proved misleading about the threat posed by Saddam Hussein and Iraq's possession of WMDs. He later acknowledged his vote as a "mistake."
2002: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate in 2002.
2003: End of First Term as Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 2003, Biden's first term as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee ended. He would later return to chair the committee again from 2007 to 2009.
2005: Passage of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act
A bankruptcy bill similar to the one vetoed in 2000, known as the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act, passed in 2005, with Biden being one of the few Democrats to vote in favor of it.
2005: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Target Year
The Inflation Reduction Act set a target to lower US greenhouse gas emissions to 31-44% below 2005 levels by 2030.
2005: Baseline Year for Emissions Reduction Target
The year 2005 serves as the baseline year for measuring the United States' goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
2006: Development of Iraq Federalization Plan
In 2006, Biden and Leslie Gelb proposed a plan for the federalization of Iraq, aiming to address sectarian violence. The plan's relevance was revisited years later amid the rise of ISIL.
September 2007: Proposing a Plan for Iraq's Future
By September 2007, Biden had become a critic of the Iraq War and opposed the troop surge. He proposed a plan for federalizing Iraq, dividing it into three semi-autonomous regions for Kurds, Shiites, and Sunnis. While a non-binding resolution supporting his plan passed the Senate, it failed to gain further traction.
2007: Biden and Obama Develop Rapport
Throughout 2007, as Biden and Obama campaigned, they got to know each other better and developed a strong rapport.
2007: Financial Crisis Begins
The financial crisis that impacted the 2008 campaign began in 2007.
2007: Beginning of Second Term as Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 2007, Biden began his second term as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, continuing his influential role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
January 3, 2008: Biden Withdraws from 2008 Presidential Race
On January 3, 2008, after placing fifth in the Iowa caucuses, Biden withdrew from the 2008 presidential race.
August 22, 2008: Obama Selects Biden as Running Mate
On August 22, 2008, Barack Obama announced Joe Biden as his running mate, citing Biden's foreign policy and national security experience.
September 2008: Financial Crisis Impacts Campaign and Biden Supports Bailout
As the financial crisis peaked in September 2008, it became a major campaign issue, and Biden voted for the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act.
October 2, 2008: Biden Participates in Vice-Presidential Debate
On October 2, 2008, Biden participated in the vice-presidential debate with Sarah Palin, with polls indicating he won the debate overall.
November 4, 2008: Obama and Biden Win 2008 Presidential Election
On November 4, 2008, Barack Obama and Joe Biden won the presidential election, defeating John McCain and Sarah Palin.
2008: Biden's Relationship with Obama Transforms During Campaign
During 2008, Biden's relationship with Barack Obama transformed from one of distance to mutual respect as they campaigned against each other.
2008: End of Teaching at Widener University
Joe Biden concluded his adjunct professorship at Widener University School of Law, where he had co-taught a seminar on constitutional law since 1991.
2008: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate in 2008.
2008: Joe Biden Becomes Vice Presidential Nominee
Joe Biden's selection as Barack Obama's running mate in 2008 propelled him into the national spotlight and set the stage for his two terms as vice president.
2008: Biden's 2008 Presidential Campaign
Throughout 2008, Biden campaigned for president, emphasizing his experience and making notable remarks about his opponents. However, he struggled to gain momentum and withdrew from the race.
January 6, 2009: Biden Sworn in as Senator Before Resigning
On January 6, 2009, Biden was sworn in for his seventh term as Senator before resigning to become Vice President.
January 20, 2009: Biden Sworn in as Vice President
On January 20, 2009, Joe Biden was sworn in as the 47th vice president of the United States, becoming the first from Delaware and the first Roman Catholic to hold the office.
April 2009: Swine Flu Gaffe and Retraction
In April 2009, Biden made an off-the-cuff remark about the swine flu outbreak that required a quick retraction by the White House, reinforcing his reputation for making occasional gaffes.
July 2009: Acknowledgement of Economic Misread
By July 2009, amidst rising unemployment, Biden admitted that the administration had underestimated the severity of the economic downturn. However, he remained confident in the stimulus package's ability to create jobs.
November 2009: Biden's Net Worth Reported as One of the Lowest Among Senators
In November 2009, Biden's net worth was publicly disclosed as $27,012, ranking him among the least wealthy members of the Senate. He attributed this to his early entry into politics.
2009: Joe Biden Inaugurated as Vice President
In 2009, Joe Biden was sworn in as the 47th vice president of the United States, serving alongside President Barack Obama.
2009: Biden Takes Active Role as Vice President
In 2009, Biden took on significant responsibilities as vice president, including overseeing Iraq policy and advising Obama on Afghanistan.
2009: End of Second Term as Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 2009, Biden's second term as Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations committee ended as he resigned from the Senate to become Vice President under Barack Obama.
March 23, 2010: Signing of the Affordable Care Act
On March 23, 2010, Biden's enthusiastic reaction to Obama signing the Affordable Care Act, calling it "a big fucking deal," was caught on a hot mic, showcasing his candidness and support for the legislation.
October 2010: Obama Asks Biden to Remain as Running Mate
In October 2010, Obama asked Biden to remain as his running mate for the 2012 presidential election.
December 2010: Negotiation of Tax Relief and Job Creation Act
In December 2010, Biden played a pivotal role in negotiating the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010. His ability to find common ground with Republicans led to the temporary extension of the Bush tax cuts.
2010: Financial Crisis Ends
The financial crisis that impacted the 2008 campaign ended in 2010.
February 2011: Oversight of Infrastructure Spending and Fraud Prevention
In February 2011, Biden concluded his role overseeing infrastructure spending from the Obama stimulus package. He reported a minimal fraud rate of less than one percent, highlighting the success in managing the funds.
March 2011: Leadership in Federal Spending Negotiations
In March 2011, Obama entrusted Biden to lead negotiations with Congress regarding federal spending levels, aiming to prevent a government shutdown and address the looming debt ceiling crisis.
May 2011: Osama Bin Laden Mission Concerns
Reports suggest that Biden advised against the May 2011 mission to kill Osama bin Laden, expressing concerns over potential negative impacts on Obama's re-election chances if the mission failed.
August 2, 2011: Resolution of Debt Ceiling Crisis
On August 2, 2011, Biden's negotiations with Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell proved crucial in averting a U.S. default by reaching a deal that resulted in the Budget Control Act of 2011.
2011: U.S. Troops Withdraw from Iraq
U.S. troops withdrew from Iraq in 2011.
2011: Daley Explores Replacing Biden on the Ticket
In late 2011, White House chief of staff William M. Daley explored the possibility of replacing Biden with Hillary Clinton on the 2012 ticket, but the idea was dropped.
May 2012: Biden's Statement on Same-Sex Marriage Makes Waves
In May 2012, Biden's statement supporting same-sex marriage garnered attention, contrasting with Obama's then-evolving stance, and influenced Obama's eventual support for same-sex marriage.
August 2012: Biden's "Back in Chains" Remark Draws Attention
In August 2012, Biden's remark that Republican policies would "put y'all back in chains" sparked controversy and highlighted his tendency for unscripted comments.
September 11, 2012: Biden's Strong Debate Performance Helps Obama Rebound
After Obama's lackluster performance in the first presidential debate, Biden's strong showing against Paul Ryan in the October 11 vice-presidential debate helped Obama regain momentum in the polls. The debate was also notable for Biden's use of the phrase "a bunch of malarkey."
December 2012: Formation of Gun Violence Task Force
Following the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in December 2012, Obama appointed Biden to head the Gun Violence Task Force to address gun violence and explore potential gun control measures.
2012: Biden's Role in Iraq Policy Decreases
By 2012, Biden's role in overseeing U.S. policy in Iraq diminished with the withdrawal of U.S. troops in 2011.
2012: Obama and Biden Seek Re-election
Obama and Biden ran for re-election in 2012.
2012: Biden's Evolving Stance on Same-Sex Marriage
While initially opposing national same-sex marriage rights during his Senate tenure, Biden's stance evolved, and he has supported same-sex marriage since 2012.
January 20, 2013: Second Term Inauguration
Biden was inaugurated for his second term as vice president on January 20, 2013, in a private ceremony at his official residence.
October 2013: Exclusion from Government Shutdown Negotiations
Biden was sidelined from negotiations leading to the October 2013 Continuing Appropriations Act, which ended the government shutdown. Democratic leaders felt he had been too conciliatory in previous negotiations.
2013: Reauthorization of Violence Against Women Act
Biden's Violence Against Women Act was reauthorized in 2013, demonstrating his continued commitment to combating domestic violence and sexual assault.
2013: Passage of American Taxpayer Relief Act
In early 2013, Biden's relationship with McConnell was instrumental in passing the American Taxpayer Relief Act, which permanently extended many Bush-era tax cuts while raising rates for higher income levels.
January 2014: Co-Chairmanship of Sexual Assault Task Force
In January 2014, Biden and Valerie Jarrett became co-chairs of the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault, furthering his work on addressing violence against women.
2014: Biden's Tendency to Embellish and Exaggerate Noted
Observations in 2014 highlighted Biden's inclination to embellish aspects of his past or exaggerate details, a trait attributed to his storytelling style.
2014: Marginalization in Debt-Ceiling Crisis
Similar to the 2013 government shutdown, Biden played a limited role in resolving the 2013 debt-ceiling crisis, due to concerns from Democratic leadership about his negotiating style.
2014: Focus on ISIL and Renewed Attention on Iraq Strategy
As the ISIL threat grew in 2014, Biden's 2006 plan for Iraq's federalization gained renewed attention, with some suggesting its validity. He declared the U.S. would pursue ISIL relentlessly.
2015: Encouragement for 2016 Presidential Bid
By mid-2015, Biden was seriously contemplating a 2016 presidential run, with urging from family, friends, and donors. A "Draft Biden 2016" PAC was even formed.
2015: Decision Against 2016 Presidential Run
Despite earlier considerations, Biden announced on October 21, 2015, that he would not seek the presidency in 2016. He cited the emotional toll of his son Beau's recent death as a significant factor.
2015: Biden's Empathetic Nature Highlighted Following Son's Death
Following the passing of his eldest son, Beau, in 2015, Biden's compassionate nature and ability to connect with others on the topic of grief became increasingly evident.
2015: Death of Beau Biden
In 2015, Joe Biden's son, Beau Biden, tragically passed away due to brain cancer.
2015: Supreme Court Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage
The Supreme Court's landmark ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015 declared the Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional, legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide.
2016: Media Speculation about 2020 Candidacy
From 2016 onward, media outlets frequently mentioned Biden as a potential contender for the 2020 presidential election, fueling speculation about his political future.
2016: Consideration of 2016 Presidential Run
Biden considered running for president in 2016, fueled by encouragement from supporters and declining favorability ratings for Hillary Clinton.
2016: Advocacy for Sexual Assault Awareness
At the 88th Academy Awards in 2016, Biden used his platform to raise awareness about sexual assault while introducing Lady Gaga, garnering a standing ovation from the audience.
2016: Public Announcement of Not Running
Biden's decision not to run for president in 2016 was publicly announced in a Rose Garden address, where he emphasized the need for full commitment from anyone seeking the office.
2017: Biden's Economic Policies and Healthcare Stance
Biden proposed partially reversing the 2017 corporate tax cuts, advocating for a raise to 28% from 21%, and supported the Affordable Care Act, aiming to expand coverage through a public option.
2017: Publication of Memoir and Book Tour
In 2017, Biden released his memoir, "Promise Me, Dad," and embarked on a book tour, sharing personal reflections and insights from his time in public service.
2017: Conclusion of Joe Biden's Vice Presidency
Joe Biden's tenure as the 47th vice president of the United States concluded in 2017, marking the end of his eight years of service in that role.
January 2018: Formation of "Time for Biden" PAC
In January 2018, the "Time for Biden" political action committee was established, actively encouraging Biden to enter the 2020 presidential race.
2018: Eulogy for Senator John McCain
Biden delivered a moving eulogy at Senator John McCain's funeral in 2018, praising McCain's commitment to American ideals, bipartisan spirit, and unwavering integrity.
2018: Biden Acknowledges His Tendency for Gaffes
Known for his occasional verbal missteps, Biden humorously referred to himself as "a gaffe machine" in 2018, acknowledging his proclivity for making unintentional blunders.
March 2019: Allegations of Inappropriate Physical Contact Surface
In March 2019, eight women accused Biden of inappropriate physical contact in the past.
April 2019: Biden Pledges to Respect Personal Space
Following allegations of inappropriate physical contact, Biden pledged in April 2019 to be more respectful of people's personal boundaries.
April 25, 2019: Launch of 2020 Presidential Campaign
After much speculation, Biden officially announced his candidacy for president on April 25, 2019, citing concerns about the Trump administration and a sense of duty to run.
September 2019: Trump Pressures Ukraine to Investigate Biden
In September 2019, it was reported that Trump pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to investigate alleged wrongdoing by Biden and his son Hunter, despite the lack of evidence.
2019: Expressing Regret over 1994 Crime Law
By 2019, Biden publicly expressed regret over some aspects of the 1994 crime law, particularly its impact on mass incarceration and its policies related to crack cocaine.
2019: Expressing Regret to Anita Hill
In 2019, Biden expressed regret to Anita Hill for his handling of her allegations during Clarence Thomas's confirmation hearings in 1991. However, Hill stated that she remained unsatisfied with his apology.
2019: Biden Voices Support for Roe v. Wade and Repealing the Hyde Amendment
In 2019, Joe Biden expressed his support for Roe v. Wade and advocated for the repeal of the Hyde Amendment.
2019: Biden's Performance in Early Primaries and Caucuses
Throughout 2019, despite leading national polls, Biden faced setbacks in early primaries and caucuses, finishing fourth in Iowa and fifth in New Hampshire. However, he gained momentum after a significant win in the South Carolina primary.
2019: Earnings from Speaking Engagements and Book Sales
By 2019, Biden and his wife had reportedly earned over $15 million from speaking engagements and book sales since leaving the White House, reflecting his post-vice presidency endeavors.
2019: Honorary Professorship and Establishment of Penn Biden Center
After leaving the vice presidency, Biden accepted an honorary professorship at the University of Pennsylvania and founded the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement, a position he held until 2019.
February 2020: U.S. Begins Withdrawing Troops from Afghanistan
The withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan began in 2020 under an agreement with the Taliban, with a deadline set for May 1, 2021. However, the Taliban launched an offensive on that date, leading to a rapid deterioration of the situation.
February 2020: Trump Administration's Deal with the Taliban
In February 2020, the Trump administration struck a deal with the Taliban, agreeing to withdraw US forces from Afghanistan.
March 2020: Tara Reade Accuses Biden of Sexual Assault
Tara Reade, who had previously accused Biden of inappropriate touching, made a new allegation in March 2020, claiming that Biden sexually assaulted her in 1993. Biden denied the allegation.
April 8, 2020: Biden Becomes Presumptive Democratic Nominee
With Bernie Sanders suspending his campaign on April 8, 2020, Biden became the presumptive Democratic nominee for president.
August 18, 2020: Biden Officially Nominated at Democratic National Convention
Biden secured the Democratic Party's official nomination for president at the 2020 Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2020.
November 2020: Biden Elected 46th President of the United States
In a historic victory, Biden defeated incumbent Donald Trump in November 2020 to become the 46th president of the United States.
November 2020: Biden's Net Worth Increases Significantly After Vice Presidency
By November 2020, the Bidens had amassed a net worth of $9 million, primarily attributed to earnings from book sales and speaking engagements following Biden's tenure as vice president.
2020: Biden's Historic Presidential Victory
The 2020 presidential election witnessed Joe Biden and Kamala Harris's triumph, marking a historic moment as the oldest president and the first female vice president took office.
2020: Ambivalence Towards 2020 Candidacy
Leading up to the 2020 election, Biden remained ambiguous about running for president, offering mixed signals and suggesting he hadn't ruled out the possibility.
2020: Biden's Positions on Law Enforcement and Cannabis
In 2020, Biden campaigned on decriminalizing cannabis, contrasting with his earlier advocacy for harsher drug penalties as a senator. He also maintained strong relationships with police groups and supported a Police Officer's Bill of Rights.
2020: Biden Emerges as Top Democratic Candidate
During the 2020 campaign season, Biden's popularity among Democratic voters surged, making him a strong contender against Trump in the presidential election.
2020: Biden's Campaign Promise for Supreme Court Nomination
During his 2020 campaign, Biden pledged to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court if a vacancy arose.
2020: Biden's 2020 Presidential Campaign Launch Anniversary
Biden's 2024 campaign launch marked four years since the start of his successful 2020 presidential campaign.
2020: Biden's Campaign Focuses on "Healer-in-Chief" Image
Biden's 2020 presidential campaign strategically positioned him as a figure of empathy and healing, aiming to portray him as the "healer-in-chief."
2020: Biden Reuses "Malarkey" Phrase
Biden reused his "a bunch of malarkey" phrase during his 2020 presidential campaign.
January 6, 2021: Capitol Attack and Biden's Address
During the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, Biden addressed the nation, condemning the violence and calling for peace and unity.
January 20, 2021: Biden Inaugurated as 46th President
Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States on January 20, 2021.
February 4, 2021: U.S. Ends Support for Saudi-Led Yemen Campaign
On February 4, 2021, the Biden administration declared an end to U.S. support for the Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen.
February 2021: Biden Enjoys High Approval Among Democrats
In February 2021, Biden's approval rating among Democrats reached a high of 98 percent, reflecting strong support within his own party.
March 2021: American Jobs Plan Proposal
Biden proposed the $2 trillion American Jobs Plan in March 2021 to address infrastructure, housing, education, and workforce development.
May 1, 2021: Original Deadline for US Troop Withdrawal from Afghanistan
May 1, 2021, marked the initial deadline set by the Trump administration for the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.
June 2021: Biden Embarks on First International Trip as President
In June 2021, Biden undertook his first international trip as president, visiting Europe for eight days. He attended significant summits like the G7, NATO, and EU summits, and notably held a one-on-one meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
July 2021: Biden's Approval Among Republicans Briefly Rises
Biden's approval rating among Republicans saw a temporary increase, reaching 12 percent in July 2021.
July 2021: Biden Stresses Importance of Vaccination
As the Delta variant spread in July 2021, Biden urged unvaccinated Americans to get vaccinated, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in combating the pandemic.
August 2021: Biden's Approval Rating Begins to Decline
Following a period of approval ratings above 50 percent, August 2021 marked the beginning of a decline in Biden's approval rating, attributed to factors like the Afghanistan withdrawal, the Delta variant surge, and economic concerns.
August 2021: Senate Passes Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill
The Senate passed the $1 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in August 2021.
September 2021: Biden Announces AUKUS Security Pact
Biden announced the formation of AUKUS, a security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, in September 2021. This pact aimed to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and included provisions for nuclear-powered submarines for Australia.
November 2021: Infrastructure Bill Signed into Law
The House approved the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in early November 2021, and Biden signed it into law in mid-November 2021.
2021: Biden Officially Recognizes the Armenian Genocide
In a historic move, Joe Biden became the first U.S. president to formally acknowledge the Armenian genocide in 2021.
2021: Biden Signs American Rescue Plan Act
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Biden signed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, providing economic relief to individuals and businesses.
2021: Biden at COP26: Climate Funding and Methane Emissions
At the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference, Biden promoted methane emission reduction and pledged to increase climate funding to developing countries.
2021: Biden's First Year in Office Marked by Economic Recovery and Inflation
Biden's first year (2021) saw significant economic growth, including a 5.9% increase in real GDP, record job creation, and a decrease in unemployment. However, inflation surged to a near 40-year high of 7.1%.
2021: Robust Economic Growth in Biden's First Year
Biden's first year in office (2021) was marked by a 5.9% growth in real GDP.
2021: Biden's Judicial Appointees in First Year
By the end of 2021, 40 of Biden's federal judiciary appointees were confirmed. He prioritized diversity, with most being women and people of color.
2021: Joe Biden Becomes 46th President
In 2021, Joe Biden assumed office as the 46th president of the United States, a testament to his long and distinguished career in public service.
January 2022: Minimum Wage Increase for Federal Contractors
In January 2022, Biden signed an executive order increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour for federal contractors, impacting 390,000 workers.
January 2022: Justice Breyer's Retirement Announcement
Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, appointed by Bill Clinton, announced his retirement in January 2022.
February 2022: Counterterrorism Raid Targets Islamic State Leader
Biden ordered a counterterrorism raid in northern Syria in early February 2022, leading to the death of Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, the leader of the Islamic State.
April 2022: Biden Signs Postal Service Reform Act
In April 2022, amidst other legislative efforts, Biden signed a bipartisan bill to reform the United States Postal Service, aiming to improve its financial stability and operations.
June 25, 2022: Biden Signs Bipartisan Safer Communities Act
On June 25, 2022, in response to the Uvalde school shooting, Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. This legislation implemented measures like enhanced background checks for young gun buyers and funding for mental health initiatives and crisis intervention programs.
July 21, 2022: Biden Tests Positive for COVID-19
Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on July 21, 2022, experiencing mild symptoms and receiving Paxlovid treatment while isolating in the White House.
July 28, 2022: Biden Administration Fills Border Wall Gaps
Despite a campaign promise to halt border wall construction, on July 28, 2022, the Biden administration announced it would close four gaps in the U.S.-Mexico border wall near Yuma, Arizona, following criticism of his administration's border management.
August 7, 2022: Senate Passes Inflation Reduction Act
The Senate passed the Inflation Reduction Act on August 7, 2022, with a 51-50 vote, aiming to address climate change, healthcare, and tax reform.
August 9, 2022: CHIPS and Science Act Signed into Law
On August 9, 2022, Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act to boost domestic semiconductor research and manufacturing, aiming to compete with China economically.
August 10, 2022: Biden Signs Honoring our PACT Act
Biden signed the Honoring our PACT Act on August 10, 2022, aiming to enhance healthcare access and funding for veterans exposed to toxic substances during their service, including those affected by burn pits.
September 2, 2022: Biden Delivers "Soul of the Nation" Speech
On September 2, 2022, Biden delivered a significant speech in Philadelphia, characterizing it as a "battle for the soul of the nation." In the speech, he strongly criticized Trump supporters, labeling them as "semi-fascists," a remark that drew condemnation from Republicans.
September 2022: Biden Signals Support for Taiwan, Issues Orders on Chinese Technology
In September 2022, Biden stated that the U.S. would defend Taiwan if China launched an "unprecedented attack," a departure from the long-held policy of "strategic ambiguity." Later in the year, he issued orders to curb Chinese technological advancement and maintain U.S. dominance in key sectors.
October 6, 2022: Biden Pardons Federal Cannabis Possession Offenses
On October 6, 2022, Biden pardoned all Americans federally convicted for "small" amounts of cannabis possession. This marked a significant step in addressing criminal justice reform and drug policy in the United States.
November 2, 2022: Discovery of Classified Documents from Biden's Vice Presidency
Biden's attorneys discovered classified documents from his time as vice president in a locked closet at the Penn Biden Center on November 2, 2022. The documents were reported to the National Archives, prompting an investigation.
2022: House Passes Bill Codifying Roe Protections, Stalled by Senate Filibuster
The U.S. House of Representatives, in 2022, passed a bill aiming to enshrine the protections offered by Roe v. Wade into federal law. However, the bill faced a roadblock in the Senate, failing to overcome a filibuster.
2022: Economic Slowdown, Inflation Peak, and Recession Concerns
In 2022, real GDP growth slowed to 2.1%, inflation peaked at 9.1% in June, and there were concerns about a recession, although job creation and consumer spending remained strong.
2022: Analysis of Biden's Political Ideology
In 2022, journalist Sasha Issenberg highlighted Biden's ability to navigate the shifting mainstream of the Democratic Party as his key political strength. Analysts have described Biden's ideology as an Americanized form of Christian democracy, blending center-right and center-left positions, and traditional liberalism, advocating for individual rights and a regulated market economy.
2022: Build Back Better Act and Inflation Reduction Act
The Build Back Better Act, a $3.5 trillion social spending bill, faced challenges and was reworked into the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, addressing deficit reduction, climate change, healthcare, and tax reform.
2022: Inflation Reduction Act Signed into Law
In 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act, a major piece of legislation aimed at addressing climate change, healthcare costs, and other key issues.
January 9, 2023: News Breaks About Classified Documents Investigation
CBS News published an article on January 9, 2023, revealing the ongoing investigation into the handling of classified documents from Biden's vice presidency.
January 11, 2023: House Launches Investigation into Biden Family Business Dealings
The House of Representatives initiated an investigative committee on January 11, 2023, to examine the foreign business activities of Biden's son, Hunter, and brother, James.
February 4, 2023: U.S. Shoots Down Suspected Chinese Surveillance Balloon
The U.S. shot down a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon off the coast of South Carolina on February 4, 2023. This incident escalated tensions between the two countries, with China claiming it was a civilian airship that veered off course.
February 20, 2023: Biden Visits Kyiv, Meets Zelenskyy
On February 20, 2023, just days before the anniversary of the Russian invasion, Biden made a significant visit to Kyiv, meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, promising additional military aid, and condemning the war.
March 2023: Collapse of U.S. Banks and Regulatory Response
March 2023 saw the failure of three U.S. banks, causing a decline in global bank stock prices and prompting a regulatory response to prevent global contagion. Biden opposed a taxpayer bailout.
April 2023: Biden Announces 2024 Re-Election Bid
In April 2023, Joe Biden declared his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election, seeking re-election for a second term.
April 25, 2023: Biden Announces 2024 Reelection Bid
Biden confirmed his decision to seek reelection in the 2024 presidential election on April 25, 2023, with Kamala Harris as his running mate.
July 2023: Biden Addresses Heat Waves and Climate Change
During the 2023 heat waves, Biden announced measures to protect the population and linked the extreme weather to climate change.
October 2023: Economic Indicators Show Lower Inflation and Acceleration
By October 2023, inflation eased to 3.2%, and indicators showed economic acceleration, with GDP growth reaching 4.9% in the third quarter.
October 2023: Hamas-Israel War and Biden's Response
In October 2023, Biden responded to the outbreak of the Hamas-Israel war with strong support for Israel, deploying military assets, calling for aid, and later urging humanitarian efforts. He condemned Hamas's attack and affirmed his stance as a Zionist.
October 2023: Record High Domestic Oil Production Achieved Amidst Biden's Clean Energy Policies
In October 2023, despite Biden's clean energy policies, which Congressional Republicans labeled as a "War on American Energy," domestic oil production in the U.S. reached an all-time high.
November 2023: Confirmation of 150 Federal Judges
By November 2023, Biden had appointed 150 federal judges, with 100 of them being women.
December 13, 2023: House Formalizes Impeachment Inquiry Against Biden
The House of Representatives voted 221-212 on December 13, 2023, to formally launch an impeachment inquiry against Biden, alleging corruption based on House investigations.
December 2023: Biden's Approval Among Democrats Decreases
By December 2023, Biden's approval rating among Democrats experienced a decline, settling at 78 percent.
December 2023: Congressional Investigations Find No Wrongdoing by Biden
Despite ongoing investigations, congressional inquiries, particularly by the House Oversight committee, had not uncovered evidence of wrongdoing by Biden as of December 2023.
December 22, 2023: Biden Pardons Federal Cannabis Offenses on Federal Lands
Extending his previous pardons, Biden pardoned Americans for cannabis use or possession on federal lands on December 22, 2023, regardless of charges or prosecution, further addressing concerns related to federal cannabis laws.
2023: Debt Limit Standoff and Resolution
In 2023, a standoff occurred between Biden and congressional Republicans over the debt limit, risking a U.S. default. A deal was struck, suspending the debt limit until January 2025.
2023: Biden Concludes 2023 with Historically Low Approval Rating
By the end of 2023, Biden's job approval rating stood at 39 percent, marking the lowest rating recorded by a modern U.S. president after three years in office.
February 8, 2024: Special Counsel Concludes Investigation, No Charges for Biden
On February 8, 2024, the special counsel appointed to investigate the classified documents case concluded the investigation, announcing that no charges would be filed against Biden.
March 2024: Gallup Poll Reveals Disapproval of Israeli Conduct
A Gallup poll in March 2024 indicated that a majority of Americans disapproved of Israel's actions during the war, with younger generations showing significantly less support.
April 2024: Campus Protests Erupt Against Biden's Stance
Beginning in April 2024, university campuses witnessed widespread protests against Biden, denouncing his continued support for Israel during the conflict.
May 2024: Continued Support for Israel Amidst Domestic Opposition
Despite facing domestic disapproval and protests over U.S. involvement in the war, Biden maintained his support for Israel as of May 2024.
2024: Recognition as 19th-Longest-Serving Senator
As of 2024, Joe Biden was recognized as the 19th-longest-serving senator in U.S. history.
2024: Climate Funding Target
Biden pledged to double climate funding to developing countries by 2024 at COP26.
2024: Biden's 2024 Presidential Campaign Focuses on Economic Recovery
During his 2024 reelection campaign, Biden prioritized promoting economic growth and recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, using the slogan "finish the job."
January 2025: Debt Ceiling Deal and Suspension
The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 suspended the debt limit until January 2025, averting a default.
2030: Methane Emission Reduction Target
Biden worked towards a deal to cut methane emissions by a third by 2030 during COP26.
2030: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Target
The Inflation Reduction Act aims to achieve a 31-44% reduction in US greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 levels by 2030.
2030: US Goal for Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction
The United States, under Biden's leadership, has set a target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50-52% below 2005 levels by the year 2030.