History of Joe Biden in Timeline
Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who served as the 46th president of the United States (2021-2025). As a member of the Democratic Party, he previously served as the 47th vice president (2009-2017) and as a U.S. Senator from Delaware (1973-2009).
1934: Midterm Election
The midterm election of 2022 was the first since 1934 in which the president's party lost no state legislative chambers.
November 20, 1942: Birth of Joe Biden
On November 20, 1942, Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was born. He would later become the 46th president of the United States.
1946: Family purchased home in Garden City, New York
In 1946, Joe Biden's family, who had been wealthy, purchased a home in Garden City, New York.
1953: Family moved to Claymont, Delaware
In 1953, when Joe Biden was ten, his family moved to an apartment in Claymont, Delaware, before moving to a house in nearby Mayfield.
1961: Graduated from Archmere Academy
In 1961, Joe Biden graduated from Archmere Academy in Claymont, where he played baseball and football.
1965: Graduated from University of Delaware
In 1965, Joe Biden graduated from the University of Delaware.
1965: Received Bachelor of Arts Degree
In 1965, Joe Biden received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in history and political science from the University of Delaware in Newark.
August 27, 1966: Married Neilia Hunter
On August 27, 1966, Joe Biden married Neilia Hunter at a Catholic church in Skaneateles, New York.
1968: Clerked at Wilmington law firm
In 1968, Joe Biden clerked at a Wilmington law firm headed by Republican William Prickett and identified as a Republican.
1968: Earned Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law
In 1968, Joe Biden earned a Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law.
1968: Graduated from Syracuse University College of Law
In 1968, Joe Biden graduated from Syracuse University College of Law.
1968: Received Conditional Medical Deferment
In 1968, Joe Biden received a conditional medical deferment from the draft based on a physical examination.
1968: First time an eligible incumbent had declined to run for reelection
In 1968, before Joe Biden withdrew from the election in 2024, was the first time an eligible incumbent had declined to run for reelection.
1968: Lyndon B. Johnson's withdrawal from the 1968 presidential election
Lyndon B. Johnson's withdrawal from the 1968 presidential election was compared to Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election.
1969: Practiced law
In 1969, Joe Biden practiced law, first as a public defender and then at a law firm headed by a Democrat.
1969: Admitted to the Delaware bar
In 1969, Joe Biden was admitted to the Delaware bar, qualifying him to practice law in the state.
1970: Ran for New Castle County Council
In 1970, Joe Biden ran for the fourth district seat on the New Castle County Council on a liberal platform.
January 5, 1971: Took office on New Castle County Council
On January 5, 1971, Joe Biden took office on the New Castle County Council after winning the general election.
December 18, 1972: Wife and daughter killed in automobile accident
On December 18, 1972, a few weeks after Biden was elected senator, his wife Neilia and one-year-old daughter Naomi were killed in an automobile accident in Hockessin, Delaware.
1972: Elected as U.S. Senator from Delaware
In 1972, Joe Biden defeated Republican incumbent J. Caleb Boggs to become the junior U.S. senator from Delaware.
1972: Elected to U.S. Senate
In 1972, Joe Biden was elected to the U.S. Senate, beginning his long tenure as a senator from Delaware.
January 1, 1973: End of term on New Castle County Council
On January 1, 1973, Joe Biden's term on the New Castle County Council came to an end.
1973: Elected as U.S. Senator from Delaware
In 1973, Joe Biden was elected as a U.S. Senator from Delaware, commencing his long career in the Senate.
1974: Described himself as liberal on civil rights and conservative on other issues
In a 1974 interview, Joe Biden described himself as liberal on civil rights and liberties, senior citizens' concerns and healthcare, but conservative on other issues, including abortion and military conscription.
1975: Met Jill Tracy Jacobs
In 1975, Joe Biden met Jill Tracy Jacobs on a blind date.
1976: Supported measure forbidding use of federal funds for transporting students
In 1976, Joe Biden supported a measure forbidding the use of federal funds for transporting students beyond the school closest to them.
1976: First U.S. senator to endorse Jimmy Carter for president
In 1976, Joe Biden was the first U.S. senator to endorse Governor Jimmy Carter for president in the Democratic primary.
1976: Use of Hubert Humphrey Passage
Two years prior to the events of the passage, in 1976, Joe Biden used a passage by Hubert Humphrey in a speech, later acknowledging that politicians often borrow from one another.
June 17, 1977: Married Jill Tracy Jacobs
On June 17, 1977, Joe Biden married Jill Tracy Jacobs at the United Nations chapel in New York.
1977: Co-sponsored amendment closing loopholes
In 1977, Joe Biden co-sponsored an amendment closing loopholes in the 1976 measure that forbade the use of federal funds for transporting students.
1978: Re-elected to the U.S. Senate
In 1978, Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate.
1978: President Carter signed amendment into law
In 1978, President Carter signed into law the 1977 amendment co-sponsored by Joe Biden, closing loopholes in the measure forbidding the use of federal funds for transporting students.
1979: Addressed Senate Foreign Relations Committee's objections
After Congress failed to ratify the SALT II Treaty in 1979, Joe Biden met with Soviet foreign minister Andrei Gromyko and secured changes that addressed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee's objections.
1980: Jimmy Carter Loss
In 1980, Jimmy Carter's loss was the last time an incumbent president lost a contest while appearing on the ballot until Joe Biden in 2024.
1981: Birth of daughter Ashley Biden
In 1981, Joe Biden and Jill Biden had a daughter, Ashley Biden.
1981: Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee
In 1981, Joe Biden became the ranking minority member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, highlighting his growing influence in the Senate.
1984: Comprehensive Crime Control Act Passage
In 1984, Joe Biden was a Democratic floor manager for the successful passage of the Comprehensive Crime Control Act. He was praised for modifying some of the law's provisions, making it a significant legislative achievement.
1984: Re-elected to the U.S. Senate
In 1984, Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate.
1984: Objected to Strategic Defense Initiative plan
In a congressional hearing in 1984, Joe Biden objected to the Strategic Defense Initiative plan to construct autonomous systems of ICBM defense.
1986: Midterm Election
The midterm election of 2022 was the first since 1986 in which the incumbent president's party achieved a net gain in governorships.
June 9, 1987: Declaration of Candidacy for 1988 Presidential Nomination
On June 9, 1987, Joe Biden declared his candidacy for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination, entering the race with a strong profile.
September 23, 1987: Withdrawal from 1988 Presidential Race
On September 23, 1987, Joe Biden withdrew his candidacy from the 1988 presidential race due to plagiarism accusations and exaggerated claims about his early life.
1987: Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary
In 1987, Joe Biden became the chairman of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, marking a significant position in his senatorial career.
February 1988: Surgery for Intracranial Berry Aneurysm
In February 1988, Joe Biden underwent surgery to correct a leaking intracranial berry aneurysm, followed by a pulmonary embolism during recuperation. He then underwent a second surgery in May.
1988: Unsuccessful Run for Democratic Presidential Nomination
In 1988, Joe Biden ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic presidential nomination.
1988: 1988 Democratic presidential nomination
In 1988, Joe Biden sought the Democratic presidential nomination. He was considered a strong candidate initially, but later faced challenges that led to him withdrawing from the race.
1988: Robert Bork Nomination Hearings
In 1988, as chair, Joe Biden presided over the contentious U.S. Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Robert Bork. Biden reversed his earlier approval of a hypothetical Bork nomination, and Bork's nomination was ultimately rejected.
1989: Biden was viewed as being close to the credit card company MBNA
Since 1989, Joe Biden was viewed as being close to the credit card company MBNA, a major contributor to his campaigns, sometimes being called the "senator from MBNA".
1990: Re-elected to the U.S. Senate
In 1990, Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate.
1991: Clarence Thomas Nomination Hearings
During Clarence Thomas's nomination hearings in 1991, Joe Biden's questioning was noted for its complexity. He faced criticism for his handling of Anita Hill's accusations against Thomas, leading to controversy.
1991: Co-taught seminar at Widener University School of Law
From 1991 to 2008, Joe Biden co-taught a seminar on constitutional law at Widener University School of Law as an adjunct professor.
1991: Opposed the Gulf War
In 1991, Joe Biden opposed the Gulf War, taking a stance against military intervention in the Middle East.
1991: Vote Against Authorization for the Gulf War
In 1991, Joe Biden voted against authorization for the Gulf War, marking a notable foreign policy stance.
1991: Kevin Nealon portrays Biden on Saturday Night Live
In 1991, Kevin Nealon was the first person to portray Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live.
1992: Public perception of the economy
In 1992, before 2008 and 2024, public perception of the economy was worse helping Trump win the 2024 presidential election.
April 1993: Meeting with Slobodan Milošević
In April 1993, Joe Biden had a tense three-hour meeting with Serbian leader Slobodan Milošević, reflecting his increasing involvement in Balkan affairs.
1993: Vote on Homosexuality and Military Service
In 1993, Joe Biden voted for a provision that deemed homosexuality incompatible with military life, which banned gay people from serving in the armed forces at the time.
1993: Alleged Sexual Assault by Tara Reade
In 1993, Tara Reade alleged that Joe Biden sexually assaulted her. This accusation resurfaced in March 2020, intensifying scrutiny of Biden's past behavior.
1994: Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act Passage
In 1994, Joe Biden helped pass the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, which included a ban on assault weapons and the Violence Against Women Act. Biden later expressed regret for passing this bill due to its impact on mass incarceration.
1995: Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee
In 1995, Joe Biden once again became the ranking minority member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, a position he held until 1997.
1996: Defense of Marriage Act Vote
In 1996, Joe Biden voted for the Defense of Marriage Act, which prohibited the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages. This act was later ruled unconstitutional in 2015.
1996: Re-elected to the U.S. Senate
In 1996, Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate.
1997: Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 1997, Joe Biden became the ranking minority member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, marking a significant step in his foreign policy career.
1997: End of term as Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee
In 1997, Joe Biden's term as the ranking minority member of the Senate Judiciary Committee came to an end, concluding a significant chapter in his Senate career.
2000: Credit Card Bankruptcy Legislation
In 2000, Joe Biden sponsored bankruptcy legislation sought by credit card issuers; President Bill Clinton vetoed the bill that year.
2000: William Roth defeated
Until 2000, Joe Biden was junior senator to William Roth, who was defeated that year.
June 2001: Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In June 2001, Joe Biden became the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, solidifying his role in shaping foreign policy until 2003.
October 2002: Vote in Favor of Iraq War Authorization
In October 2002, Joe Biden voted in favor of the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq, later calling it a 'mistake' by 2005.
2002: Re-elected to the U.S. Senate
In 2002, Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate.
2003: End of First Term as Chair of Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 2003, Joe Biden's first term as the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee ended, concluding a significant chapter in his foreign policy leadership.
2005: Inflation Reduction Act Impact
According to an analysis by the Rhodium Group, the Inflation Reduction Act will lower U.S. greenhouse gas emissions between 31 percent and 44 percent below 2005 levels by 2030.
2005: Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention Act
In 2005, Joe Biden was one of 18 Democrats to vote for the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act, which was opposed by leading Democrats and consumer rights organizations.
2005: Baseline Year for Emission Reduction Target
In April 2021, President Biden announced the United States would cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 50%-52% by 2030, relative to 2005 levels. The year 2005 served as the baseline for calculating the emissions reduction.
September 2007: Resolution Endorsing Division of Iraq
In September 2007, Joe Biden advocated dividing Iraq into a loose federation of three ethnic states, and a non-binding resolution endorsing the plan passed the Senate, though the idea failed to gain traction.
2007: Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 2007, Joe Biden again became the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, a role he held until 2009, reinforcing his influence on U.S. foreign policy.
2007: Obama and Biden getting to know each other.
In 2007, Joe Biden and Barack Obama got to know each other, fostering a relationship that would lead to Biden being considered as a running mate in the 2008 elections.
January 3, 2008: Withdrawal from 2008 Presidential Race
On January 3, 2008, Joe Biden placed fifth in the Iowa caucuses and withdrew from the 2008 presidential race that evening, due to lack of funding and support.
August 2008: Selection as Obama's Running Mate
In August 2008, Barack Obama and Joe Biden met to discuss a place for Biden in the Obama administration. On August 22, Obama announced that Biden would be his running mate, and on August 27, Biden was nominated for vice president at the Democratic National Convention.
September 2008: Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008
In September 2008, as the financial crisis peaked, Joe Biden voted for the $700 billion Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, which later passed in the Senate.
2008: Jason Sudeikis portrays Biden on Saturday Night Live
During the 2008 election season, Jason Sudeikis portrayed Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live and reprised the role many times.
2008: Co-taught seminar at Widener University School of Law
From 1991 to 2008, Joe Biden co-taught a seminar on constitutional law at Widener University School of Law as an adjunct professor.
2008: Chosen as Barack Obama's Running Mate
In 2008, Barack Obama selected Joe Biden as his running mate, leading to their successful campaign for the presidency and vice presidency.
2008: Re-elected to the U.S. Senate
In 2008, Joe Biden was re-elected to the U.S. Senate.
2008: Increased stature in the political world.
In 2008, Joe Biden's campaign for president increased his stature in the political world, particularly improving his relationship with Barack Obama.
2008: Spokesperson cited asthma as reason for deferment
In 2008, a spokesperson for Joe Biden said his having had "asthma as a teenager" was the reason for his conditional medical deferment from the draft in 1968.
2008: Public perception of the economy
In 2008, before 2024, public perception of the economy was worse helping Trump win the 2024 presidential election.
2008: Stocks Experience Worst Year Since 2008
In 2022, stocks experienced their worst year since 2008 before beginning to recover.
January 2009: Resignation from the Senate
In January 2009, having been reelected to the Senate and elected as Vice President, Joe Biden resigned from the Senate on January 15, after being sworn in for his seventh term.
January 20, 2009: Biden sworn in as Vice President
On January 20, 2009, Joe Biden was sworn in as Vice President of the United States, becoming the first vice president from Delaware and the first Roman Catholic vice president.
April 2009: Biden makes off-message remark on swine flu outbreak
In April 2009, Joe Biden's off-message response to a question during the swine flu outbreak led to a swift retraction by the White House and revived his reputation for gaffes.
May 2009: Biden affirms U.S. position on Kosovo's independence
In May 2009, Joe Biden visited Kosovo and affirmed the U.S. position that its "independence is irreversible".
July 2009: Biden acknowledges misreading of economy
In July 2009, amidst rising unemployment, Vice President Biden acknowledged that the Obama administration had "misread how bad the economy was", but maintained confidence in the stimulus package's job creation potential.
November 2009: Biden's Net Worth
As of November 2009, Joe Biden's net worth was $27,012.
2009: Became 47th Vice President of the United States
In 2009, Joe Biden assumed the role of the 47th Vice President of the United States, serving under President Barack Obama.
2009: End of Second Term as Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
In 2009, Joe Biden's second term as the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee came to an end, concluding his tenure as a leading voice on foreign policy in the Senate.
March 23, 2010: Biden comment on Affordable Care Act
On March 23, 2010, a hot mic picked up Joe Biden telling President Obama that his signing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was "a big fucking deal".
October 2010: Obama asks Biden to stay as running mate
In October 2010, Joe Biden stated that President Barack Obama had asked him to remain as his running mate for the 2012 presidential election.
December 2010: Biden advocates for compromise tax package
In December 2010, Joe Biden's advocacy for a middle ground, followed by his negotiations with Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell, were instrumental in producing the Obama administration's compromise tax package.
February 2011: Biden completes role overseeing stimulus spending
In February 2011, Joe Biden completed his role overseeing infrastructure spending from the Obama stimulus package, reporting that fraud incidents with stimulus monies had been less than one percent.
May 2011: Reports Suggest Biden Opposed Bin Laden Mission
In May 2011, some reports suggest that Joe Biden opposed proceeding with the U.S. mission to kill Osama bin Laden.
2011: Biden oversees Iraq policy
In 2011, Joe Biden was delegated by President Obama to oversee Iraq policy, becoming the administration's point man in delivering messages to Iraqi leadership before the exit of U.S. troops.
May 2012: Biden supports same-sex marriage
In May 2012, Joe Biden voiced that he was "absolutely comfortable" with same-sex marriage, which gained considerable public attention in comparison to President Obama's position.
August 2012: Biden makes controversial remark
In August 2012, Joe Biden made a remark before a mixed-race audience that Republican proposals to relax Wall Street regulations would "put y'all back in chains", which drew attention to his propensity for colorful remarks.
December 2012: Biden leads Gun Violence Task Force
In December 2012, President Obama named Joe Biden to head the Gun Violence Task Force to address the causes of school shootings.
2012: Biden touts Obama's re-election
In 2012, Joe Biden made the case for President Obama's reelection, saying "Osama bin Laden is dead and General Motors is alive."
2012: Biden supported same-sex marriage
Joe Biden has supported same-sex marriage since 2012.
January 20, 2013: Biden inaugurated for second term
On January 20, 2013, Joe Biden was inaugurated to a second term as Vice President at a small ceremony at his official residence.
October 2013: Biden cut out of debt-ceiling discussions
In October 2013, Joe Biden played little part in discussions that led to the passage of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014, which resolved the federal government shutdown of 2013 and the debt-ceiling crisis of 2013.
2013: Robert Hur's report on Biden's memory
In 2013, as part of the investigation into Biden's handling of classified documents, special counsel Robert Hur noted that Biden did not remember when he was vice president or when his son Beau died, characterizing his memory as having "significant limitations".
2013: Biden negotiates deal on the fiscal cliff
In early 2013, Joe Biden's relationship with Mitch McConnell again proved important as the two negotiated a deal that led to the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 being passed at the start of 2013 to avert the "fiscal cliff".
January 2014: White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault
In January 2014, Joe Biden co-chaired the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault with Valerie Jarrett.
2014: Renewed Attention Paid to Biden-Gelb Iraqi Federalization Plan
As the ISIL insurgency in Iraq intensified in 2014, renewed attention was paid to the Biden-Gelb Iraqi federalization plan of 2006.
2014: Record Deportations
From October 2023 to September 2024, deportations from the U.S. reached the highest level since 2014.
2014: Hunter Biden Joins Burisma
Hunter Biden's pardon covered any criminal behavior since 2014—the year that Hunter joined the board of Ukrainian energy company Burisma.
2014: Biden's Exaggerations Noted by The New Yorker
In 2014, The New Yorker noted that Joe Biden often embellishes elements of his life or exaggerates, a trait also pointed out by The New York Times.
2014: Start Date for Hunter Biden Pardon Coverage
On December 1, 2024, President Biden issued a "full and unconditional" pardon to Hunter Biden, covering all federal offenses between 2014 and December 1, 2024.
2014: Biden Pardons Family
President Biden issued pardons for more of his family members and other high-profile figures, covering federal offenses they committed or may have committed between 2014 and the day of the pardon.
2015: Beau Biden died of brain cancer
In 2015, Beau Biden, Joe Biden's son, died of brain cancer.
2015: Obergefell v. Hodges Decision
In 2015, the Defense of Marriage Act, which Joe Biden voted for in 1996, was ruled unconstitutional in the Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, marking a significant legal shift.
2015: Death of Beau Biden
Particularly since the 2015 death of his elder son Beau, Joe Biden has been noted for his empathetic nature and ability to communicate about grief.
2016: Biden considered for 2016 Presidential Nomination
During his second term, Joe Biden was often said to be preparing for a bid for the 2016 Democratic presidential nomination.
2016: Greg Kinnear portrays Biden in Confirmation
In 2016, Greg Kinnear portrayed Joe Biden in the HBO television film "Confirmation", about the Clarence Thomas Supreme Court nomination hearings.
January 20, 2017: Biden Leaves Office
On January 20, 2017, Joe Biden left office as Vice President of the United States, succeeded by Mike Pence.
2017: Biden proposes reversing corporate tax cuts
In 2017, Joe Biden proposed partially reversing the corporate tax cuts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
2017: Biden writes memoir
In 2017, Joe Biden wrote a memoir, "Promise Me, Dad", and went on a book tour.
![[Joe Biden] Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship, and Purpose - Hardcover](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41qecnch4uL._SL500_.jpg "[Joe Biden] Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship, and Purpose - Hardcover")
2017: End of Vice Presidency
In 2017, Joe Biden's tenure as the 47th Vice President of the United States came to an end.
2017: Creative Artists Agency (CAA) represented Biden
In 2017, before his term ended, talent agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA) represented Joe Biden until 2020.
January 2018: Time for Biden PAC formed
In January 2018, a political action committee known as Time for Biden was formed.
2018: Biden eulogizes Senator John McCain
In 2018, Joe Biden gave a eulogy for Senator John McCain.
2018: The Senate went Republican
In 2018, before the 2024 election, the Senate went Republican.
March 2019: Biden Describes Himself as a Bridge
In March 2019, Joe Biden stated that he viewed himself as a bridge to the next generation of leaders, emphasizing the future leadership within the Democratic Party.
April 2019: Biden pledges to be more respectful
In April 2019, after accusations of inappropriate physical contact, Joe Biden pledged to be more "respectful of people's personal space".
April 25, 2019: Biden launches 2020 presidential campaign
On April 25, 2019, Joe Biden launched his campaign for president in the 2020 election, citing concerns about the Trump administration and a "sense of duty".
September 2019: Trump pressures Zelenskyy to investigate Biden
In September 2019, it was reported that then-President Donald Trump pressured Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy to investigate Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden, leading to a political scandal and Trump's impeachment.
2019: Biden Supports Roe v. Wade and Repealing Hyde Amendment
In 2019, Joe Biden said he supported Roe v. Wade and repealing the Hyde Amendment.
2019: Regret for Treatment of Anita Hill
In 2019, Joe Biden told Anita Hill he regretted his treatment of her during the 1991 Clarence Thomas nomination hearings, though Hill remained unsatisfied with his expression of regret.
2019: Accusations of Inappropriate Physical Contact
In 2019, eight women, including Tara Reade, accused Joe Biden of inappropriate physical contact.
February 2020: Trump Administration's Deal with the Taliban
In February 2020, the Trump administration reached an agreement with the Taliban to completely withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan by May 1, 2021.
February 2020: US-Taliban Agreement
In February 2020, under the provisions of the US-Taliban agreement that set a May 1, 2021, deadline, American forces began withdrawing from Afghanistan.
March 2020: Tara Reade Accuses Biden of Sexual Assault
In late March 2020, Tara Reade, who had previously accused Biden of inappropriate physical contact in 2019, alleged that he sexually assaulted her in 1993. Biden and his campaign denied the allegations.
April 8, 2020: Sanders Suspends Campaign, Biden Becomes Presumptive Nominee
On April 8, 2020, Bernie Sanders suspended his campaign, making Joe Biden the Democratic Party's presumptive nominee for president.
November 2020: Biden's Net Worth Increase
By November 2020, the Bidens were worth $9 million, largely due to sales of Biden's books and speaking fees after his vice presidency.
November 2020: Biden Elected as 46th President
In November 2020, Joe Biden was elected the 46th president of the United States, defeating incumbent Donald Trump, despite Trump's false claims of widespread election fraud.
December 2020: CPI Increase since December 2020
Between December 2020 and December 2024, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 21.3% overall, with an annualized inflation rate of 5.3% throughout Biden's term in office.
2020: Campaign Promise on Private Prisons
Despite his 2020 campaign promise to end the practice, in the final year of his presidency, the Biden administration worked to extend at least 14 contracts with private prison companies to run immigrant detention centers.
2020: Campaign Vow
During his 2020 campaign, Joe Biden pledged to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court if a vacancy occurred.
2020: Biden reuses phrase during presidential campaign
During his 2020 presidential campaign, Joe Biden reused the phrase "a bunch of malarkey" that he popularized in the 2012 vice-presidential debate.
2020: Biden played by multiple actors on Saturday Night Live
During the 2020 election season, Joe Biden was played by John Mulaney, Alex Moffat, Mikey Day, Woody Harrelson, and Jim Carrey on Saturday Night Live.
2020: Creative Artists Agency (CAA) represented Biden
In 2020, Creative Artists Agency (CAA) represented Joe Biden. He later signed with them again on January 20, 2025.
2020: Biden Ran on Decriminalizing Cannabis
In 2020, Joe Biden also ran on decriminalizing cannabis, after advocating harsher penalties for drug use as a senator.
2020: Biden's victory over Trump
In 2020, the experts polled generally regarded Joe Biden's signature accomplishment as his victory over Donald Trump in the 2020 election, which was perceived as helping to protect and restore political and institutional norms in American government.
2020: Elected President of the United States
In the 2020 presidential election, Joe Biden, with Kamala Harris as his running mate, defeated Republican incumbents Donald Trump and Mike Pence to become the President of the United States.
January 6, 2021: Attack on the U.S. Capitol
On January 6, 2021, supporters of Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol during the electoral vote count, disrupting the formalization of Biden's victory. Biden addressed the nation, condemning the events. Congress later certified Biden and Harris as the winners.
January 20, 2021: Biden Inaugurated as 46th President
On January 20, 2021, Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 46th president of the United States, becoming the oldest person to assume the office at 78. The inauguration was a muted affair due to COVID-19 precautions and heightened security.
February 2021: High Approval Rating from Democrats
In February 2021, Joe Biden had a 98% approval rating from Democrats during his presidency.
February 2021: Ending Support for Saudi-Led Campaign in Yemen
In February 2021, the Biden administration declared that the United States would end its support for the Saudi-led bombing campaign in Yemen and also revoked the designation of Yemen's Houthis as terrorists.
March 2021: American Jobs Plan Proposed
In late March 2021, as part of the Build Back Better agenda, President Biden proposed the American Jobs Plan, a $2 trillion package addressing transport infrastructure, utilities infrastructure, broadband infrastructure, housing, schools, manufacturing, research, and workforce development.
March 2021: Inflation Rate Above Federal Reserve Target
Starting in March 2021, the inflation rate remained above the Federal Reserve's 2% target every month, leading to elevated interest rates to combat inflation.
May 1, 2021: Original Deadline for US Troop Withdrawal from Afghanistan
May 1, 2021, marked the original deadline set by the Trump administration for the complete withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan, per a deal with the Taliban made in February 2020.
June 2021: Biden's First Trip Abroad as President
In June 2021, President Biden embarked on his first international trip, visiting Belgium, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. During this trip, he attended a G7 summit, a NATO summit, and an EU summit, and also held direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
July 2021: Biden Urges Americans to Get Vaccinated
In July 2021, amid a slowdown in COVID-19 vaccination rates and the spread of the Delta variant, President Biden emphasized the critical importance of Americans getting vaccinated.
August 2021: Decline in Approval Rating
In August 2021, Joe Biden's approval rating began to decline due to the Afghanistan withdrawal, increasing hospitalizations from the Delta variant, high inflation and gas prices, disarray within the Democratic Party, and a general decline in popularity customary in politics.
August 2021: Senate Passes Infrastructure Bill
In August 2021, the Senate passed a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, called the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which covered transport, utilities, and broadband infrastructure.
September 2021: Announcement of AUKUS Security Pact
In September 2021, the Biden administration announced AUKUS, a security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The aim of the pact is to ensure "peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific" region.
November 2021: House Approves Infrastructure Bill
In early November 2021, the House of Representatives approved the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, covering transport, utilities, and broadband infrastructure. President Biden signed the bill into law in mid-November 2021.
2021: Judicial Nominations
By the end of 2021, President Biden had 40 of his nominees to the federal judiciary confirmed, surpassing any president in their first year since Ronald Reagan. Biden also prioritized diversity in judicial appointments, with most appointees being women and people of color.
2021: Climate Change Conference Promotion
During the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), President Biden promoted an agreement between the U.S. and the European Union to cut methane emissions by a third by 2030 and sought to involve other countries. He also pledged to double climate funding to developing countries by 2024. The U.S. and China also reached a deal on greenhouse gas emission reduction.
2021: Became 46th President of the United States
In 2021, Joe Biden became the 46th president of the United States, marking a significant milestone in his political career.
2021: Biden Officially Recognizes Armenian Genocide
In 2021, Joe Biden officially recognized the Armenian genocide, becoming the first U.S. president to do so.
2021: Biden Revokes Trump's Security Clearance
In 2021, Joe Biden revoked Donald Trump's security clearance for his role in inciting the January 6 Capitol attack.
2021: Biden Signs American Rescue Plan Act
In 2021, Joe Biden signed into law the American Rescue Plan Act, a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus package to support the United States' recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The package included direct payments, unemployment benefits, vaccine distribution funds, and health insurance subsidies.
2021: Surge in Border Crossings
In 2021, illegal border crossings at the Mexico–United States border began to surge after President Biden assumed office.
2021: Real GDP Growth of 5.9% in 2021
In 2021, the U.S. experienced a real GDP growth of 5.9%.
2021: U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021
President Biden supported the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021, which he proposed on his first day in office.
2021: Inflation Surge Overshadows Biden's Presidency
The 2021 inflation surge overshadowed Joe Biden's presidency.
2021: Introduction of the Honoring our PACT Act
The Honoring our PACT Act, aimed at improving healthcare access for veterans exposed to toxic substances, was introduced in 2021 and subsequently signed into law by President Biden on August 10, 2022.
January 2022: Supreme Court Justice Retirement
In January 2022, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer announced his intention to retire. President Biden reiterated his 2020 campaign promise to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court.
January 2022: Minimum Wage Increase for Federal Contractors Takes Effect
In January 2022, the executive order signed by President Biden to increase the minimum wage for federal contractors to $15 per hour went into effect, impacting 390,000 workers.
February 2022: Russian Invasion of Ukraine and U.S. Response
In February 2022, the Russian Armed Forces, under the direction of President Vladimir Putin, launched an invasion of Ukraine. In response, President Biden imposed severe sanctions on Russia and authorized over $8 billion in weapons shipments to Ukraine after warning for several weeks that an attack was imminent.
February 2022: Counterterrorism Raid in Northern Syria
In early February 2022, President Biden ordered a counterterrorism raid in northern Syria. This operation led to the death of Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, who was the second leader of the Islamic State.
April 2022: Biden Signs Postal Service Reform Act of 2022
In April 2022, Joe Biden signed into law the bipartisan Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 to revamp the finances and operations of the United States Postal Service agency.
June 2022: Inflation Peaked at 9.1%
In June 2022, inflation peaked at 9.1% during Biden's presidency, contributing to public frustration and declining approval ratings.
June 25, 2022: Biden Signs Bipartisan Safer Communities Act
On June 25, 2022, Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law, aimed at addressing gun reform issues following the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas.
July 21, 2022: Biden Tests Positive for COVID-19
On July 21, 2022, Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 and experienced reportedly mild symptoms. According to the White House, he was treated with Paxlovid and worked in isolation in the White House for five days.
August 7, 2022: Senate Passes Inflation Reduction Act
On August 7, 2022, the Senate passed the Inflation Reduction Act (as amended) on a 51-50 vote, with all Democrats in favor and all Republicans opposed, and Vice President Kamala Harris breaking the tie.
August 9, 2022: Biden Signs CHIPS and Science Act into Law
On August 9, 2022, Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law, allocating billions of dollars for domestic research and manufacturing of semiconductors to compete with China.
August 10, 2022: Biden Signs Honoring our PACT Act into Law
On August 10, 2022, President Biden signed the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 into law, which aims to improve healthcare access and funding for veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service.
September 2, 2022: Philadelphia Speech
On September 2, 2022, in a nationally broadcast Philadelphia speech, President Biden called for a "battle for the soul of the nation" and referred to Trump supporters as "semi-fascists".
September 2022: Biden's Comments on Defending Taiwan
In a September 2022 interview with 60 Minutes, President Biden stated that U.S. forces would defend Taiwan in the event of an "unprecedented attack" by China, deviating from the U.S. policy of "strategic ambiguity". This statement, made after three previous similar comments, led to the Biden administration walking back his remarks and reaffirming that U.S. policy toward Taiwan remained unchanged.
October 6, 2022: Cannabis Possession Pardons
On October 6, 2022, President Biden pardoned all Americans convicted of "small" amounts of cannabis possession under federal law.
November 2022: Discovery of Classified Documents at Penn Biden Center
In November 2022, attorneys for President Biden discovered classified documents dating back to his time as vice president in a "locked closet" at the Penn Biden Center. These documents were reported to the U.S. National Archives and subsequently recovered the following day.
December 2022: No TikTok on Government Devices Act Signed
In December 2022, President Biden signed the No TikTok on Government Devices Act, prohibiting the use of TikTok on devices owned by the federal government.
2022: Biden Blocks National Railroad Strike
In 2022, President Biden blocked a national railroad strike that was planned by multiple labor unions.
2022: Signed Inflation Reduction Act into Law
In 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law, incorporating aspects of his proposed Build Back Better Act.
2022: Biden Signs Respect for Marriage Act
In 2022, President Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act, repealing the Defense of Marriage Act and requiring the federal government to recognize same-sex and interracial marriages.
2022: Abortion bill unable to clear the Senate filibuster
In 2022, The House passed a bill codifying the protections of Roe into federal law, but it was unable to clear the Senate filibuster.
2022: Journalist Sasha Issenberg on Biden's political skill
In 2022, journalist Sasha Issenberg wrote that Joe Biden's "most valuable political skill" was "an innate compass for the ever-shifting mainstream of the Democratic Party".
2022: Economic Slowdown and Recession Concerns in 2022
In 2022, real GDP growth cooled to 2.1% after 5.9% growth in 2021, with slightly negative growth in the first half sparking recession concerns. Job creation and consumer spending remained strong, while the unemployment rate matched a 53-year low of 3.5% in December.
2022: Inflation Reduction Act
In 2022, the Build Back Better Act was comprehensively reworked into the Inflation Reduction Act, which covers deficit reduction, climate change, healthcare, and tax reform.
2022: Congress Approves Aid to Ukraine
In 2022, the United States Congress approved approximately $113 billion in aid to Ukraine in response to the Russian invasion.
2022: Biden Ranked 19th by Siena College Research Institute
The Siena College Research Institute's 2022 survey ranked Joe Biden 19th out of 45 presidents.
January 11, 2023: House Investigation into Biden Family's Foreign Business Activities
On January 11, 2023, the House of Representatives launched an investigative committee into the foreign business activities of President Biden's son, Hunter, and his brother, James. Representative James Comer, the committee's chair, also investigated alleged corruption related to the Hunter Biden laptop controversy.
February 4, 2023: Shooting Down of Suspected Chinese Surveillance Balloon
On February 4, 2023, under President Biden's orders, the United States Air Force shot down a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon off the coast of South Carolina. The Chinese government claimed the balloon was a civilian airship blown off course, not a surveillance device. This incident led to Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponing his planned visit to China and further strained U.S.-China relations.
February 2023: Unemployment Rate Falls to 53-Year Low
In February 2023, the unemployment rate fell to 3.4%, marking a 53-year low.
March 2023: Bank Failures and Biden's Response
In March 2023, three U.S. banks experienced failures, leading to a decline in global bank stock prices. President Biden opposed a taxpayer bailout, attributing the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank in March 2023 to the partial rollback of Dodd-Frank regulations.
April 4, 2023: Finnish Ascension into NATO
On April 4, 2023, Finland officially ascended into NATO, marking a significant moment in the expansion of the alliance.
April 25, 2023: Biden Confirms Re-election Run
On April 25, 2023, Joe Biden confirmed he would run for re-election as president in the 2024 election, with Kamala Harris as his running mate. On the day of his announcement, a Gallup poll showed his approval rating at 37 percent, with the economy being the biggest concern for most surveyed.
July 2023: Biden Announces Measures to Address Heat Waves
In July 2023, as heat waves impacted the United States, President Biden announced measures to protect the population, linking the heat waves to climate change.
September 2023: Student Loan Pause Extended
In September 2023, President Biden extended the COVID-19 student loan pause. Additionally, an "on ramp" period extended protections against credit reporting, collection efforts, and late payment fees through September 30, 2024.
October 2023: Record Low Approval Rating Among Democrats
By October 2023, Joe Biden's approval rating among Democrats had reached a record low of 75%.
October 2023: Inflation Eases to 3.2% by October 2023
By October 2023, inflation had eased to 3.2% after peaking at 9.1% in June 2022.
October 2023: Domestic Oil Production Reached Record High
Despite Joe Biden's clean energy policies, domestic oil production reached a record high in October 2023.
October 2023: Deportations Increase
From October 2023 to September 2024, deportations from the U.S. reached the highest level since 2014.
October 2023: Hamas Attack on Israel and U.S. Response
In October 2023, Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, leading to intensified conflict. President Biden stated his strong support for Israel and condemned the attack, deploying aircraft carriers and requesting $14 billion in military aid to Israel. He later pressured Israel to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and supported "humanitarian pauses" for aid delivery, while rejecting calls for a ceasefire. Biden also directed the U.S. military to help deliver humanitarian aid and asked Israel to pause its invasion of Gaza for at least three days to allow for hostage negotiations.
October 2023: Biden Administration Request for Additional Aid to Ukraine
In October 2023, the Biden administration requested an additional $61.4 billion in aid for Ukraine for the upcoming year, facing delays in passage by the House of Representatives.
December 13, 2023: House Vote to Formalize Impeachment Inquiry
On December 13, 2023, the House of Representatives voted 221–212 to formalize an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, alleging corruption by him and his family.
December 2023: No Evidence of Wrongdoing Found
As of December 2023, congressional investigations, including by the House Oversight committee, had discovered no evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden.
December 2023: Record High Border Crossings
In December 2023, illegal border crossings at the Mexico–United States border reached an all-time monthly high.
December 22, 2023: Pardons for Cannabis Use on Federal Lands
On December 22, 2023, President Biden pardoned Americans for cannabis use or possession on federal lands, regardless of whether they had been charged or prosecuted.
2023: Debt Limit Deal
In 2023, Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy reached a deal, the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, to raise the U.S. debt limit, averting a potential default. The act suspended the debt limit until January 2025 and was generally considered favorable to Biden.
2023: Biden's response about other Democrats beating Donald Trump
In 2023, Joe Biden was asked whether any other Democrats could beat Donald Trump. He replied, "Probably 50 of them".
2023: Lowest Approval Rating Among Modern U.S. Presidents
In 2023, after three years in office, Joe Biden's approval rating was the lowest of any modern U.S. president.
2023: Inflation Surge Overshadows Biden's Presidency
The 2021-2023 inflation surge overshadowed Joe Biden's presidency.
January 2024: Humanitarian Parole for Migrants
As of January 2024, over a million migrants had been admitted to the U.S. under humanitarian parole. This policy allowed migrants to fly into the U.S. or schedule their entries through official entry points on the U.S.-Mexico border.
January 2024: Support for Bipartisan Immigration Deal
In January 2024, President Biden expressed support for a proposed bipartisan immigration deal led by Senators Kyrsten Sinema and James Lankford. The bill would have changed immigration law, including allowing the children of those with H-1B visas to get work authorizations and freezing their legal ages while waiting for green cards.
January 17, 2024: House Passes Resolution on Border Handling
On January 17, 2024, the House of Representatives passed a Republican-led non-binding resolution denouncing the Biden-Harris administration's handling of the U.S. southern border by a vote of 225–187.
February 8, 2024: No Charges Against Biden in Classified Documents Case
On February 8, 2024, Special Counsel Robert K. Hur announced that no charges would be brought against President Biden regarding the handling of classified documents.
February 2024: Alexander Smirnov charged with making false statements
In February 2024, Alexander Smirnov, a former intelligence informant prominent in bribery allegations against Biden, was charged with making false statements. Smirnov admitted he had publicized a false story given to him by Russian intelligence officials with the goal of damaging Biden's reelection campaign.
February 2024: Biden Ranked as 14th-Greatest President in Poll
In February 2024, an American Political Science Association poll of historians and scholars ranked Joe Biden as the 14th-greatest president. His ranking was considered unusually high for a presidency without military victories or institutional expansion.
February 29, 2024: Biden's Reaction to Killing of Palestinian Civilians
Following the killing of Palestinian civilians receiving food aid on February 29, 2024, President Biden stated that the current level of aid flowing into Gaza was insufficient. He also mentioned that the U.S. military began airdropping food aid into Gaza on March 3, which was later criticized by experts as performative and unlikely to alleviate the famine.
March 2024: Public Disapproval of Israeli Conduct
In March 2024, a Gallup poll revealed that a strong majority of Americans disapproved of Israeli conduct during the war in Gaza. This sentiment underscored significant domestic opposition to American involvement and support for Israel.
April 2024: Gaza War Protests on University Campuses
Beginning in April 2024, widespread protests against the Gaza war emerged on university campuses. The protests were used to denounce President Biden's policies and actions regarding the conflict.
April 2024: Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act Signed
In April 2024, President Biden signed the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. This act allows for the banning of social networking services deemed to be "foreign adversary controlled applications" by the president, with specific reference to ByteDance Ltd. and its subsidiaries, based in China. The act would no longer be applicable if the application is divested and no longer controlled by a foreign adversary of the United States.
April 2024: Plan to Protect Water Sources Unveiled
In April 2024, President Biden unveiled a plan to protect and restore natural water sources, including 3.2 million hectares of wetlands and 161,000 km of waterways.
April 2024: Additional Aid to Ukraine
The additional $61 billion in aid to Ukraine was added in April 2024.
May 2024: Limited Use of Weapons Against Russian Targets
In May 2024, President Biden granted an exception to the restriction preventing Ukraine from using U.S.-supplied weapons against Russian military targets. This exception was limited to targets in the vicinity of Kharkiv for "counter-fire" purposes, while maintaining the block on other weapons systems due to escalation concerns.
May 2024: Increased Tariffs on Chinese Imports
In May 2024, the Biden administration doubled tariffs on solar cells imported from China and more than tripled tariffs on lithium-ion electric vehicle batteries imported from China. Additionally, tariffs were raised on imports of Chinese steel, aluminum, and medical materials.
May 31, 2024: Biden's Support for Israeli Ceasefire Proposal
On May 31, 2024, President Biden announced his support for an Israeli ceasefire proposal, stating that Hamas was "no longer capable" of launching another large-scale attack. The proposal, which aimed to establish a permanent ceasefire, release all hostages, and reconstruct the Gaza Strip, received support from Hamas officials following mediation by Egypt and Qatar. However, the Netanyahu administration maintained that Israel's goals regarding "the destruction of Hamas military and governing capabilities" remained unchanged.
June 2024: Biden Issues Executive Action on Immigration
In June 2024, President Biden issued an executive action offering amnesty to unauthorized immigrants married to American citizens, providing a pathway to U.S. residency and citizenship, initially affecting approximately 500,000 people. The action was later struck down.
June 2024: Executive Order on Border Restriction
In June 2024, President Biden issued an executive order allowing the president to restrict the Mexico–U.S. border.
June 2024: Media Coverage of Concerns About Biden's Mental Acuity
In June 2024, the media widely covered public concern about Joe Biden's mental acuity after a weak performance in a presidential debate. While Biden repeatedly asserted his fitness for two terms, he later acknowledged potential age-related limitations.
June 27, 2024: First Presidential Debate
On June 27, 2024, the first presidential debate was held between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Biden's performance was widely criticized, with commentators noting he frequently lost his train of thought and gave meandering answers. The debate raised questions about his health and age, leading to calls for him to withdraw from the race.
July 2024: All-Time Low Approval Rating Just Before Withdrawal
In July 2024, just before he withdrew from the 2024 presidential election, Gallup found Joe Biden's approval rating had fallen to an all-time low of 36%.
July 17, 2024: Biden Tests Positive for COVID-19 Again
On July 17, 2024, Joe Biden again tested positive for COVID-19.
August 6, 2024: Harris Confirmed as Democratic Presidential Nominee
On August 6, 2024, Kamala Harris was confirmed as the Democratic presidential nominee after Joe Biden withdrew his candidacy on July 21 and endorsed her as his successor.
August 2024: U.S. Aid to Afghanistan Post-Withdrawal
As of August 2024, the U.S. remained the biggest aid donor to Afghanistan post-withdrawal, having spent at least $20.7 billion. This U.S. funding helped support the Taliban government and stabilized Afghanistan's economy.
August 2024: 2024 Ankara Prisoner Exchange
In August 2024, Biden successfully negotiated and oversaw the 2024 Ankara prisoner exchange. This was the largest prisoner exchange since the end of the Cold War, involving the release of 26 individuals, including journalist Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan.
September 2024: Deportations Reach Highest Level Since 2014
From October 2023 to September 2024, deportations from the U.S. reached the highest level since 2014.
September 25, 2024: House Resolution Condemning Biden Administration's Afghanistan Withdrawal
On September 25, 2024, the United States House of Representatives passed a resolution condemning the Biden administration for the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, with ten Democrats and all Republicans voting in favor.
September 30, 2024: Student Loan Pause Protections Extended
On September 30, 2024, the "on ramp" period for the COVID-19 student loan pause concluded, which had extended protections against credit reporting, collection efforts, and late payment fees.
October 2024: Biden Refuses to Block Port Strike
In October 2024, President Biden refused to block a port strike from the International Longshoremen's Association.
November 2024: Brokering Ceasefire Agreement in Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
In November 2024, the Biden administration announced that it had assisted in brokering a ceasefire agreement in the ongoing Israel–Hezbollah conflict.
December 1, 2024: Pardon for Hunter Biden
On December 1, 2024, President Biden issued a "full and unconditional" pardon to Hunter Biden, covering all federal offenses between 2014 and December 1, 2024.
December 12, 2024: Clemency for Nonviolent Felons
On December 12, 2024, President Biden granted clemency to about 1,500 nonviolent felons in home confinement who had previously been released from prison, marking the largest single-day clemency act in history. The act generated controversy.
December 2024: Negative Assessments of Biden's Presidency
A December 2024 Gallup poll found that 54% of Americans thought Joe Biden's presidency was below average or poor, 26% average, and 19% above average or outstanding.
December 2024: Biden pardoned Hunter Biden
In December 2024, Joe Biden pardoned Hunter Biden, following his conviction on gun and tax charges.
December 2024: Inflation at 2.9% in December 2024
In December 2024, the last full month of Biden's term, the inflation rate reached 2.9% and the core inflation rate reached 3.2% on an annual basis.
December 23, 2024: Commutation of Death Row Sentences
On December 23, 2024, President Biden commuted the sentences of 37 out of 40 federal death row inmates.
2024: Dana Carvey portrays Biden on Saturday Night Live
In 2024, Dana Carvey played Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live.
2024: Trump Defeats Harris in General Election
In 2024, Donald Trump defeated Kamala Harris in the general election. In a televised speech after the election, Joe Biden congratulated Trump and promised a peaceful transition of power.
2024: Biden Participates in Democratic Presidential Primaries
In 2024, Joe Biden faced U.S. Representative Dean Phillips in the Democratic presidential primaries. Despite not being on the ballot in the New Hampshire primary on January 23, Biden won it in a write-in campaign. He won South Carolina on February 3, Nevada, and Michigan. On March 5, he won 15 of 16 primaries. On March 6, Phillips suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. On March 12, Biden secured the Democratic nomination.
2024: Kamala Harris's defeat in the 2024 presidential election
In 2024, Kamala Harris was defeated by Donald Trump in the presidential election.
2024: Biden's presidency deemed a failure
In 2024, according to Gallup, public perception of the economy was worse only in 2008 and 1992, helping Trump win the 2024 presidential election. Journalist Amy Walter argued that Biden's presidency was deemed a failure by the public, particularly due to frustration over inflation.
2024: Withdrew Candidacy for Reelection
In 2024, after a poor performance in the first presidential debate and renewed scrutiny about his cognitive ability, Joe Biden withdrew his candidacy for reelection.
2024: Biden promoted higher economic growth and recovery
In 2024, during his campaign, Joe Biden promoted higher economic growth and recovery. He frequently stated his intention to "finish the job" as a political rallying cry.
2024: Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election
Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election was compared to Lyndon B. Johnson's withdrawal from the 1968 presidential election.
2024: Biden Ranked 14th by Presidential Greatness Project Expert Survey
The 2024 Presidential Greatness Project Expert survey ranked Joe Biden the 14th best president.
January 2025: Biden Claims He Could Have Defeated Trump
In January 2025, Joe Biden claimed he could have defeated Donald Trump had he not been persuaded to withdraw from the election, despite trailing Trump in polling.
January 2025: Final Approval Rating
In January 2025, Joe Biden's final approval rating was 40%, which was low but still higher than several other presidents' final approval ratings.
January 2025: Biden Declares Equal Rights Amendment Ratified
In January 2025, President Biden declared the lapsed Equal Rights Amendment ratified as the "28th Amendment" to the Constitution. However, this declaration had no formal legal effect, and the National Archives did not intend to certify the amendment.
January 2025: Debt Limit Suspension
The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, signed by President Biden, suspended the debt limit until January 2025, averting a default.
January 20, 2025: Biden's Term Ends
On January 20, 2025, Joe Biden's term ended. At the end of his presidency, Biden designated former senior advisors Anthony Bernal and Annie Tomasini to raise funds for the Joseph R. Biden Jr. Presidential Library.
2025: Biden's Cognitive Health Perceived to Decline
As of 2025, Joe Biden was the oldest sitting president in U.S. history. There were perceptions, particularly among Republicans and some media figures, and privately by some Democrats, that his cognitive health was declining. His family and White House staffers worked to shield him from scrutiny regarding his aging and diminished acuity.
2025: End of Presidential Term
In 2025, Joe Biden's term as the 46th president of the United States concluded.
2025: Biden Leaves Office Amidst Criticism
When Joe Biden left office in 2025, journalists and even many Democrats viewed his presidency as a failure due to age and health concerns, public frustration over inflation, and Kamala Harris's defeat in the 2024 presidential election by Donald Trump.
2030: Inflation Reduction Act Impact Target
According to an analysis by the Rhodium Group, by 2030, the Inflation Reduction Act will lower U.S. greenhouse gas emissions between 31 percent and 44 percent below 2005 levels.
2030: Methane Emission Cut Target
During the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), President Biden promoted an agreement that the U.S. and the European Union cut methane emissions by a third by 2030.
2030: U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Target Announced
In April 2021, President Biden announced the United States would cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 50%-52% by 2030, relative to 2005 levels.
2035: Target for Carbon-Free Power Sector
Joe Biden wants to achieve a carbon-free power sector in the U.S. by 2035.
2050: Target for Stopping Emissions Completely
Joe Biden wants to stop emissions completely by 2050.
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