History of Joe Biden in Timeline
Joe Biden, a prominent figure in American politics, served as the 46th President of the United States (2021-2025). As a Democrat, he previously held the position of the 47th Vice President under President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017. Prior to his executive roles, Biden represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate for over three decades, from 1973 to 2009, marking a long career in public service.
November 20, 1942: Joe Biden's Birth
On November 20, 1942, Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was born. He would later become the 46th president of the United States.
1946: Family moved to Long Island
In 1946, Joe Biden's family purchased a home in the affluent Long Island suburb of Garden City.
1953: Family moved to Delaware
In 1953, when Biden was ten, his family moved to an apartment in Claymont, Delaware, before moving to a house in nearby Mayfield, Delaware.
1961: Graduation from Archmere Academy
In 1961, Joe Biden graduated from Archmere Academy in Claymont, where he was class president in his junior and senior years.
1965: Graduation from the University of Delaware
In 1965, Joe Biden graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Arts degree, double majoring in history and political science.
August 27, 1966: Marriage to Neilia Hunter
On August 27, 1966, Joe Biden married Neilia Hunter, a student at Syracuse University, in a Catholic church in Skaneateles, New York.
1968: Clerked at Wilmington Law Firm
In 1968, Joe Biden clerked at a Wilmington law firm, and supported a more liberal Republican, Russell W. Peterson.
1968: Juris Doctor from Syracuse University
In 1968, Joe Biden earned a Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law, although he had failed a course due to plagiarism in his first year.
1968: Medical Deferment
In 1968, Joe Biden was given a conditional medical deferment based on a physical examination.
1969: Practiced Law and Joined Democratic Forum
In 1969, Joe Biden practiced law, first as a public defender and then at a law firm headed by a local Democrat, who named him to the Democratic Forum.
1969: Admitted to the Delaware Bar
In 1969, Joe Biden was admitted to the Delaware bar.
1970: Ran for New Castle County Council
In 1970, Joe Biden ran for the fourth district seat on the New Castle County Council, advocating for public housing in the suburbs.
January 5, 1971: Took Office on the New Castle County Council
On January 5, 1971, Joe Biden took office on the New Castle County Council after winning the general election in 1970.
December 18, 1972: Death of Wife and Daughter
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. Their sons were injured.
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.
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.
1974: Identified as Liberal and Conservative
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.
1975: Met Jill Tracy Jacobs
In 1975, Joe Biden met teacher Jill Tracy Jacobs on a blind date.
1976: Used Passage by Hubert Humphrey
Biden used passage by Hubert Humphrey in 1976.
1976: Endorsed Jimmy Carter
In 1976, Joe Biden was the first U.S. senator to endorse Jimmy Carter for president in the Democratic primary.
1976: Supported Measure Forbidding Federal Funds
Joe Biden supported a 1976 measure forbidding the use of federal funds for transporting students beyond the school closest to them.
June 17, 1977: Marriage to 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
Joe Biden co-sponsored a 1977 amendment closing loopholes in that measure.
1978: President Carter signed Amendment into Law
In 1978, President Carter signed amendment closing loopholes in the 1976 measure into law.
1979: SALT II Treaty
After Congress failed to ratify the SALT II Treaty signed in 1979, Joe Biden met with Soviet foreign minister Andrei Gromyko and secured changes.
1980: First incumbent president to lose contest while appearing on the ballot since Jimmy Carter in 1980
In 2024 Biden lost the American Samoa contest to venture capitalist Jason Palmer, becoming the first incumbent president to lose a contest while appearing on the ballot since Jimmy Carter in 1980.
1981: Ranking Minority Member of Judiciary Committee
In 1981, Biden became a ranking minority member of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, a position he held from 1981 to 1987. This role allowed him to influence legal and judicial matters.
1981: Birth of Ashley Biden
In 1981, Joe Biden and Jill Biden had a daughter, Ashley Biden.
1984: Objected to Reagan Administration
In 1984, Joe Biden objected to the Strategic Defense Initiative plan to construct autonomous systems of ICBM defense in a congressional hearing.
1984: Passage of Comprehensive Crime Control Act
In 1984, Joe Biden was a Democratic floor manager for the successful passage of the Comprehensive Crime Control Act.
June 9, 1987: Declaration of Candidacy for President
On June 9, 1987, Biden declared his candidacy for the 1988 Democratic presidential nomination. His moderate image and speaking ability made him a strong contender.
September 23, 1987: Withdrawal from Presidential Candidacy
On September 23, 1987, Biden withdrew his candidacy for the 1988 presidential election. This decision followed accusations of plagiarism and false claims about his academic record.
1987: Chairs Senate Judiciary Committee
In 1987, Biden became the chair of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, a position he held until 1995. This role significantly influenced his career and legislative impact.
February 1988: Brain Aneurysm Surgery
In February 1988, Biden underwent surgery to correct a leaking intracranial berry aneurysm. This health event marked a significant personal challenge for Biden.
1988: Presidential Candidacy
In 1988, Biden was running for president, but would later withdraw from the race.
1988: Robert Bork Nomination Hearings
In 1988, as chair, Biden presided over the contentious U.S. Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Robert Bork. Biden reversed his prior approval of a hypothetical Bork nomination and framed his objections in terms of constitutional rights to liberty and privacy. Ultimately, Bork's nomination was rejected.
1991: Clarence Thomas Nomination Hearings
In 1991, Biden oversaw the Clarence Thomas nomination hearings. Following the committee hearing, Anita Hill accused Thomas of sexual comments. Hill testified, but Biden did not permit testimony from other witnesses. Thomas was confirmed.
1991: Vote Against Gulf War Authorization
In 1991, Biden voted against authorizing military action in the Gulf War. This decision reflects his stance on U.S. military involvement in the Middle East at that time.
1991: Adjunct Professor at Widener University
In 1991, Joe Biden became an adjunct professor at Widener University School of Law.
1991: Kevin Nealon's Portrayal on SNL
In 1991, Kevin Nealon began portraying Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live.
April 1993: Meeting with Slobodan Milošević
In April 1993, Biden had a tense three-hour meeting with Serbian leader Slobodan Milošević regarding Serbian abuses during the Croatian War of Independence. This meeting underscored Biden's involvement in addressing the conflicts in the Balkans.
1993: Vote on Homosexuality in Military
In 1993, Biden voted for a provision that deemed homosexuality incompatible with military life, effectively banning gay people from serving in the armed forces. This decision reflects a stance from that period on LGBTQ+ rights.
1993: Sexual Assault Allegation
In March 2020, Tara Reade, accused Joe Biden of having sexually assaulted her in 1993.
1994: Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act
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.
1995: Ranking Minority Member of Judiciary Committee
In 1995, Biden became a ranking minority member of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, a position he held from 1995 to 1997. This role allowed him to continue influencing legal and judicial matters.
1996: Defense of Marriage Act Vote
In 1996, Biden voted for the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which prohibited the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages. This act barred people in such marriages from equal protection under federal law and allowed states to do the same. This vote is a key moment in the history of LGBTQ+ rights legislation.
1997: Ranking Minority Member on Foreign Relations Committee
In 1997, Biden became the ranking minority member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. This position further solidified his role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
1997: End of Judiciary Committee Ranking Minority Membership
In 1997, Biden's tenure as a ranking minority member of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary concluded. This marked the end of a significant period in his involvement with the committee.
1999: Support for NATO Bombing of Yugoslavia
In 1999, during the Kosovo War, Biden supported the NATO bombing of FR Yugoslavia. He co-sponsored the McCain-Biden Kosovo Resolution, urging President Clinton to use necessary force, including ground troops, to address Yugoslav actions toward Kosovo Albanians.
2000: Clinton Vetoes Bankruptcy Legislation
In 2000, Biden sponsored bankruptcy legislation sought by credit card issuers, however, Bill Clinton vetoed the bill. This legislative action highlights Biden's involvement in financial policy debates during that period.
2000: William Roth Defeated
In 2000, William Roth was defeated, ending Joe Biden's time as junior senator.
June 2001: Chair of Foreign Relations Committee
In June 2001, Biden became the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, a role he held until 2003. This position allowed him to exert significant influence on U.S. foreign policy.
October 2002: Vote for Iraq War Authorization
In October 2002, Biden voted in favor of the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq, approving the U.S. invasion of Iraq. As chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he assembled witnesses who misrepresented the threat posed by Saddam Hussein. Biden later called his role a "mistake".
2003: End of First Chairmanship of Foreign Relations Committee
In 2003, Biden's first term as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee came to an end. He would later resume this role from 2007 to 2009.
2005: Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention Act
In 2005, the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act passed, with Biden being one of only 18 Democrats to vote for it, while leading Democrats and consumer rights organizations opposed it. This act represented a significant change in bankruptcy law.
2006: Iraqi Federalization Plan
In 2006, the Biden-Gelb Iraqi federalization plan was created.
September 2007: Endorsement of Plan to Divide Iraq
In September 2007, Biden advocated dividing Iraq into a loose federation of three ethnic states. A non-binding resolution endorsing the plan passed the Senate, but the idea failed to gain traction.
2007: Biden and Obama Get to Know Each Other
During 2007, Obama and Biden got to know each other, and Obama appreciated Biden's campaign style and appeal to working-class voters, and Biden said he became convinced Obama was "the real deal".
2007: Second Chairmanship of Foreign Relations Committee
In 2007, Biden began his second term as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. This allowed him to continue influencing U.S. foreign policy until 2009.
January 3, 2008: Withdrawal from 2008 Presidential Race
On January 3, 2008, Biden withdrew from the 2008 presidential race after placing fifth in the Iowa caucuses, where he garnered less than one percent of the state delegates. This marked the end of his campaign.
August 2008: Secret Meeting with Obama
In August 2008, Obama and Biden met in secret to discuss the possibility of a place for Biden in the Obama administration, and developed a strong personal rapport. This meeting laid the groundwork for their partnership.
August 22, 2008: Named as Obama's Running Mate
On August 22, 2008, Barack Obama announced that Biden would be his running mate in the 2008 presidential election. This decision was influenced by Biden's foreign policy and national security experience.
September 2008: Vote for Emergency Economic Stabilization Act
In September 2008, as the financial crisis reached its peak, Biden voted for the $700 billion Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. This act aimed to address the crisis and stabilize the financial system.
2008: Increased Stature in Politics
Despite its lack of success, Biden's 2008 campaign raised his stature in the political world.
2008: 2008 Presidential Elections
In 2008, Biden was running for president.
2008: Jason Sudeikis Portrayal on SNL
In 2008, Jason Sudeikis portrayed Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live during the election season and reprised the role many times.
2008: End of Professorship at Widener University
In 2008, Joe Biden's time as adjunct professor at Widener University School of Law came to an end.
2008: Asthma as Teenager
In 2008, a spokesperson for Biden stated that his having had "asthma as a teenager" was the reason for his medical deferment.
January 2009: Resignation from the Senate
In January 2009, after being reelected to the Senate, Biden resigned from his Senate seat on January 15. This resignation marked the end of his long tenure in the Senate.
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. He was the first Vice President from Delaware and the first Roman Catholic Vice President.
April 2009: Swine Flu Gaffe
In April 2009, an off-message response by Joe Biden during the swine flu outbreak led to a swift retraction by the White House and revived his reputation for gaffes.
July 2009: Acknowledging Economic Misread
In July 2009, confronted with rising unemployment, Joe Biden acknowledged that the administration had "misread how bad the economy was".
November 2009: Biden's Net Worth Was $27,012
As of November 2009, Joe Biden's net worth was $27,012.
2009: End of Second Chairmanship of Foreign Relations Committee
In 2009, Biden's second term as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee concluded. This marked the end of his direct leadership role in shaping U.S. foreign policy within the committee.
2009: Views on Afghanistan Strategy
In 2009, Joe Biden's views on the Afghanistan strategy gained more influence as President Obama reconsidered his approach.
March 23, 2010: "A Big Fucking Deal"
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 Remain Running Mate
In October 2010, Obama asked Biden to remain as his running mate for the 2012 presidential election. This decision reflected Obama's confidence in their partnership.
December 2010: Compromise Tax Package
In December 2010, Joe Biden's advocacy and negotiations with Senator Mitch McConnell were instrumental in producing the administration's compromise tax package.
February 2011: Completion of Stimulus Oversight Role
In February 2011, Joe Biden completed his role overseeing infrastructure spending from the Obama stimulus package, reporting less than one percent fraud.
March 2011: Negotiations to Avoid Government Shutdown
In March 2011, President Obama delegated Joe Biden to lead negotiations with Congress to resolve federal spending levels and avoid a government shutdown.
May 2011: Bin Laden Mission
In May 2011, Joe Biden reportedly opposed proceeding with the U.S. mission to kill Osama bin Laden.
2011: Receding Oversight of Iraq Policy
In 2011, with the exit of U.S. troops, Joe Biden's oversight of U.S. policy in Iraq receded.
2011: Polls on Replacing Biden
In late 2011, White House Chief of Staff William M. Daley conducted some secret polling and focus group research on the idea of replacing Biden with Hillary Clinton as Vice President. The notion was dropped when the results showed no appreciable improvement.
May 2012: Statement on Same-Sex Marriage
In May 2012, Biden stated that he was "absolutely comfortable" with same-sex marriage, which gained considerable public attention. This statement prompted Obama to announce his support for same-sex marriage as well.
August 2012: Remarks on Wall Street Regulations
In August 2012, Biden remarked before a mixed-race audience that Republican proposals to relax Wall Street regulations would "put y'all back in chains". This drew attention to Biden's propensity for colorful remarks during the reelection campaign.
September 11, 2012: Benghazi Attack Response
On September 11, 2012, Vice President Biden's response to an attack by Paul Ryan regarding the administration's handling of the September 11, 2012, attacks on the U.S. embassy in Benghazi led to his popularization of the phrase "a bunch of malarkey".
December 2012: Gun Violence Task Force and Fiscal Cliff Negotiations
In December 2012, President Obama named Joe Biden to head the Gun Violence Task Force. Biden's relationship with Senator McConnell also proved important as the two negotiated a deal that led to the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 being passed.
2012: Eighth Trip to Iraq
By 2012, Joe Biden had made eight trips to Iraq as the administration's point man delivering messages to Iraqi leadership.
2012: 2012 Presidential Election
In 2012, Obama asked Biden to remain as his running mate for the 2012 presidential election.
2012: Biden Supports Same-Sex Marriage
Since 2012, Joe Biden has publicly supported same-sex marriage, marking a shift from his earlier stance while in the Senate.
January 20, 2013: Second Inauguration as Vice President
On January 20, 2013, Joe Biden was inaugurated to a second term as Vice President at a small ceremony.
October 2013: Federal Government Shutdown
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: American Taxpayer Relief Act
At the start of 2013, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was passed, following negotiations between Joe Biden and Senator McConnell in December 2012.
2013: Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization
In 2013, Joe Biden's Violence Against Women Act was reauthorized again.
January 1, 2014: Start Date for Hunter Biden Pardon Coverage
On December 1, 2024, Biden issued a "full and unconditional" pardon to Hunter Biden covering all federal offenses between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2024.
January 2014: White House Task Force to Protect Students
In January 2014, the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault was begun with Joe Biden and Valerie Jarrett as co-chairs.
2014: ISIL Insurgency in Iraq
In 2014, as the ISIL insurgency in Iraq intensified, renewed attention was paid to the Biden-Gelb Iraqi federalization plan of 2006.
2014: Continuing Appropriations Act
In October 2013, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014, was passed which resolved the federal government shutdown of 2013 and the debt-ceiling crisis of 2013.
2014: Biden's Tendency to Embellish Noted by The New Yorker
Joe Biden's tendency to embellish elements of his life or exaggerate was noted by The New Yorker in 2014.
2015: Death of Beau Biden
After the 2015 death of his elder son Beau, Biden has been noted for his empathetic nature and ability to communicate about grief.
2015: Uncertainty About Running for President
By late 2015, Joe Biden was still uncertain about running for president, feeling drained by his son Beau's recent death.
2015: Obergefell v. Hodges Ruling
In 2015, the Defense of Marriage Act, which Biden voted for in 1996, was ruled unconstitutional in Obergefell v. Hodges. This Supreme Court decision marked a significant victory for same-sex marriage rights.
2015: Encouragement to Enter Presidential Race
In mid-2015, Joe Biden's family, friends, and donors encouraged him to enter the 2016 presidential race, with a "Draft Biden 2016" PAC being established.
2016: Presidential Candidate
Between 2016 and 2019, media outlets often mentioned Biden as a likely candidate for president in 2020.
2016: Potential Presidential Bid
During his second term, Biden was often said to be preparing for a bid for the 2016 Democratic presidential nomination.
2016: Greg Kinnear Portrayal in HBO Film
In 2016, Greg Kinnear portrayed Joe Biden in the HBO television film "Confirmation", about the Clarence Thomas Supreme Court nomination hearings.
2016: Academy Awards
In 2016, Joe Biden talked about sexual violence while introducing Lady Gaga at the 88th Academy Awards, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.
2016: Decision Not to Run for President
On October 21, 2016, Joe Biden announced his decision not to run for president in 2016.
2017: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017
In 2017, Biden has proposed partially reversing the corporate tax cuts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, saying that doing so would not hurt businesses' ability to hire.
2017: Memoir Publication
In 2017, Joe Biden wrote a memoir, "Promise Me, Dad", and went on a book tour.
January 2018: Time for Biden PAC Formation
In January 2018, a political action committee known as Time for Biden was formed.
2018: Eulogy for John McCain
In 2018, Joe Biden gave a eulogy for Senator John McCain.
2018: Biden Called Himself a "gaffe machine"
In 2018, Joe Biden humorously referred to himself as "a gaffe machine", acknowledging his reputation for making verbal missteps.
March 2019: Accusations of Inappropriate Physical Contact
In March 2019, several women accused Joe Biden of inappropriate physical contact.
April 2019: Pledge to Respect Personal Space
In April 2019, Joe Biden pledged to be more "respectful of people's personal space" after accusations of inappropriate physical contact.
April 25, 2019: Presidential Campaign Launch
On April 25, 2019, Joe Biden launched his campaign for president, citing concerns about the Trump administration and a "sense of duty".
September 2019: Trump's Pressure on Ukraine
In September 2019, it was reported that President Trump had pressured Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy to investigate alleged wrongdoing by Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden, leading to Trump's impeachment.
2019: Honorary Professor at University of Pennsylvania
After leaving the vice presidency, Joe Biden became an honorary professor at the University of Pennsylvania, developing the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement, a position he remained in through 2019.
2019: Post-Vice Presidency Earnings
By 2019, Joe Biden and his wife reported that they had earned over $15 million since the end of his vice presidency from speaking engagements and book sales.
2019: Regret over Anita Hill Treatment
In 2019, Biden told Anita Hill he regretted his handling of her testimony during the 1991 Clarence Thomas hearings. Hill, however, expressed that she remained unsatisfied with his apology.
2019: "Big Mistake"
In 2019, Joe Biden called his role in passing the 1994 crime bill a "big mistake", saying it "trapped an entire generation".
2019: Biden Supported Roe v. Wade and Repealing Hyde Amendment
In 2019, Joe Biden voiced his support for Roe v. Wade and the repeal of the Hyde Amendment, aligning himself with abortion rights advocates.
2019: Accusations of Inappropriate Physical Contact
In March 2020, Tara Reade, one of the eight women who in 2019 had accused Biden of inappropriate physical contact, accused Biden of having sexually assaulted her in 1993.
2019: Presidential Campaign
Throughout 2019, Joe Biden stayed generally ahead of other Democrats in national polls.
March 2020: Sexual Assault Accusation
In late March 2020, Tara Reade, accused Joe Biden of having sexually assaulted her in 1993.
April 8, 2020: Sanders Suspends Campaign
On April 8, 2020, Bernie Sanders suspended his campaign, making Joe Biden the Democratic Party's presumptive nominee.
August 18, 2020: Democratic Party Nominee
On August 18, 2020, at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, Joe Biden officially became the Democratic Party nominee for president in the 2020 election.
November 2020: Bidens' Net Worth Reached $9 Million
By November 2020, the Bidens' net worth had increased to $9 million, largely due to book sales and speaking fees following his vice presidency.
November 2020: Election as President
In November 2020, Joe Biden was elected the 46th president, defeating Donald Trump.
December 2020: Pre-Presidency Economic Status
Between December 2020 and December 2024, CPI rose 21.3% overall, with an annualized inflation rate of 5.3% throughout Biden's term in office.
2020: Democratic Candidate
As the 2020 campaign season heated up, public polling showed Biden as one of the best-performing Democratic candidates head-to-head against Trump.
2020: Campaign Vow to Nominate Black Woman
During his 2020 campaign, Biden vowed to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court if a vacancy occurred.
2020: Multiple Portrayals on SNL
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: Trump Defeats Harris in General Election
In 2020, Donald Trump defeated Kamala Harris in the general election, flipping six states that Biden had won previously, and the Senate shifted to Republican control.
2020: Re-election and Malarkey
In 2020, Joe Biden reused the phrase "a bunch of malarkey" during his presidential campaign. On November 6, Barack Obama and Joe Biden were reelected as President and Vice President.
2020: Biden Wins the Democratic Nomination
In 2020, Joe Biden secured the Democratic Party's nomination for president, choosing Kamala Harris as his running mate. They subsequently defeated incumbents Donald Trump and Mike Pence in the presidential election.
2020: Biden Aimed to be "healer-in-chief"
In 2020, Joe Biden's presidential campaign aimed to make him "healer-in-chief", while The New York Times described his extensive history of being called upon to give eulogies.
2020: Biden Ran on Decriminalizing Cannabis
In 2020, Joe Biden's presidential platform included decriminalizing cannabis, evolving from his previous support for harsher penalties for drug use as a senator.
2020: Start of Biden's 2020 presidential campaign
President Biden launched his 2020 presidential campaign four years prior to announcing his reelection bid in 2023. The campaign marked a significant milestone in his political career.
January 6, 2021: Capitol Attack and Election Certification
On January 6, 2021, during the electoral vote count, Trump told supporters to march to the Capitol, after which some supporters attacked the Capitol. Biden addressed the nation, calling the events "an unprecedented assault". Congress later certified Biden and Harris as the winners.
January 20, 2021: Inauguration as 46th President
On January 20, 2021, Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 46th President of the United States. At 78, he became the oldest person to assume the office, and he is the second Catholic president and the first president whose home state is Delaware.
February 2021: High Approval Rating Among Democrats
In February 2021, Gallup, Inc. reported that Joe Biden had a 98% approval rating among Democrats during his first few months in office.
February 2021: US Ends Support for Saudi-led Bombing Campaign in Yemen
In February 2021, the Biden administration announced that the United States was ending its support for the Saudi-led bombing campaign in Yemen and revoked the designation of Yemen's Houthis as terrorists.
March 2021: American Jobs Plan Proposal
In late March 2021, as part of Biden's Build Back Better agenda, he proposed the American Jobs Plan, a $2 trillion package addressing infrastructure, utilities, housing, and workforce development.
March 2021: Inflation above Federal Reserve Target
Since March 2021, the inflation rate remained above the Federal Reserve's 2% target every month, resulting in elevated interest rates.
June 2021: Biden's First Trip Abroad as President
In June 2021, Biden took his first trip abroad as president, visiting Belgium, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. He attended multiple summits and held talks with Vladimir Putin.
August 2021: Biden's Approval Rating Began to Decline
In August 2021, Joe Biden's approval rating, which had been above 50%, began to decline, eventually reaching the low forties by December due to factors like the Afghanistan withdrawal and rising inflation.
August 2021: Senate Passage of Infrastructure Bill
In August 2021, the Senate passed a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill called the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
September 2021: Biden Announces AUKUS Security Pact
In September 2021, Biden announced AUKUS, a security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, to ensure "peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific over the long term".
November 2021: House Approval and Signing of Infrastructure Bill
In November 2021, the House approved the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and Biden signed the bill into law.
2021: Biden Officially Recognized Armenian Genocide
In 2021, Joe Biden officially recognized the Armenian genocide, becoming the first U.S. president to formally acknowledge this historical event.
January 2022: Justice Breyer Announces Retirement
In January 2022, Supreme Court justice Stephen Breyer announced his intention to retire from the Supreme Court.
January 2022: Minimum Wage Increase for Federal Contractors
In January 2022, an executive order signed by Biden to increase the minimum wage for federal contractors to $15 per hour went into effect for 390,000 workers.
February 2022: Russian Invasion of Ukraine
In February 2022, the Russian Armed Forces under President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Biden responded by imposing severe sanctions on Russia and authorizing weapons shipments to Ukraine.
February 2022: Counterterrorism Raid in Syria
In early February 2022, Biden ordered the counterterrorism raid in northern Syria that resulted in the death of Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, the second leader of the Islamic State.
April 2022: Signing of Postal Service Reform Act
In April 2022, 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 Peaks
In June 2022, during Biden's presidency, inflation peaked at 9.1%, contributing to a decline in his approval ratings due to public frustration.
June 25, 2022: Signing of Bipartisan Safer Communities Act
On June 25, 2022, Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law, aiming to address 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, President Biden tested positive for COVID-19 and experienced mild symptoms. He was treated with Paxlovid and worked in isolation at the White House for five days.
July 30, 2022: Biden tests positive for COVID-19 again
On July 30, 2022, President Biden tested positive for COVID-19 again after initially recovering, requiring him to return to isolation.
August 7, 2022: Senate Passes Inflation Reduction Act
On August 7, 2022, the Senate passed the Inflation Reduction Act by a vote of 51-50, with Vice President Kamala Harris breaking the tie. The bill aimed to address climate change, lower healthcare costs, and reform taxes.
August 9, 2022: Signing of CHIPS and Science Act
On August 9, 2022, Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law, providing billions in funding to boost domestic research and manufacture of semiconductors.
August 10, 2022: Signing of Honoring our PACT Act
On August 10, 2022, Biden signed the Honoring our PACT Act into law. The act intends to significantly improve healthcare access and funding for veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service.
September 2, 2022: Biden's "Battle for the Soul of the Nation" Speech
On September 2, 2022, Biden delivered a nationally broadcast speech in Philadelphia, calling for a "battle for the soul of the nation".
September 2022: Biden states U.S. forces would defend Taiwan
In September 2022, President Biden stated in an interview that U.S. forces would defend Taiwan in the event of an "unprecedented attack" by China, a statement that contrasted with the U.S.'s policy of "strategic ambiguity" towards Taiwan. This September 2022 statement followed three previous comments by Biden that the U.S. would defend Taiwan in case of a Chinese invasion, leading his administration to repeatedly walk back the statements.
October 6, 2022: Biden Pardons Cannabis Possession Offenses
On October 6, 2022, Biden pardoned all Americans convicted of "small" amounts of cannabis possession under federal law.
November 2, 2022: Classified documents found at Penn Biden Center
On November 2, 2022, attorneys for President Biden discovered classified documents dating from his vice presidency in a "locked closet" at the Penn Biden Center. The documents were reported to the U.S. National Archives that same day, and were recovered the next day, leading to further investigation.
December 2022: Biden signs No TikTok on Government Devices Act
In December 2022, Biden signed the No TikTok on Government Devices Act, which prohibits the use of TikTok on devices owned by the federal government, addressing concerns about data security and foreign influence.
2022: Bill to Codify Roe v. Wade Passed House but Failed in Senate
In 2022, A bill passed the House in 2022, but was unable to clear the Senate filibuster.
2022: Blocking National Railroad Strike
In 2022, Biden blocked a national railroad strike planned by multiple labor unions.
2022: Economic growth cools
In 2022, after 5.9% growth in 2021, real GDP growth cooled to 2.1%.
2022: Inflation Reduction Act
In 2022, as president, Biden signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act, which incorporated aspects of the failed Build Back Better Act.
2022: Biden's Politics Described as Centrist or Moderate
In 2022, journalist Sasha Issenberg wrote about Biden's "most valuable political skill" being "an innate compass for the ever-shifting mainstream of the Democratic Party".
2022: Siena College Ranking
In 2022, the Siena College Research Institute's survey ranked Joe Biden 19th out of 45 presidents.
January 9, 2023: News breaks of investigation into classified documents
On January 9, 2023, news broke about the investigation led by U.S. attorney John R. Lausch Jr. into the classified documents found at the Penn Biden Center, following an article published by CBS News. The investigation led to further scrutiny of Biden's handling of classified materials.
January 11, 2023: House launches investigative committee into Biden family business activities
On January 11, 2023, the House of Representatives established an investigative committee to probe into the foreign business activities of President Biden's son, Hunter, and his brother, James. The committee, led by Representative James Comer, also investigated alleged corruption related to the Hunter Biden laptop controversy.
February 4, 2023: Biden orders downing of suspected Chinese surveillance balloon
On February 4, 2023, under Biden's orders, the United States Air Force shot down a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon off the coast of South Carolina. The incident led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to China and further strained U.S.-China relations.
April 4, 2023: Finland's ascension into NATO
On April 4, 2023, Finland officially ascended into NATO, marking a significant expansion of the alliance following support from President Biden and the U.S.
April 25, 2023: Biden confirms reelection bid for 2024
On April 25, 2023, President Biden officially announced his candidacy for reelection in the 2024 election, with Kamala Harris as his running mate. The announcement occurred exactly four years after the launch of his 2020 presidential campaign.
July 2023: Biden Announces Measures to Combat Heat Waves
In July 2023, amidst heat waves in the U.S., Biden announced measures to protect the population and linked the heat waves to climate change.
September 2023: End of COVID-19 Student Loan Pause
Biden extended the COVID-19 student loan pause through September 2023.
October 2023: Record Low Approval Rating Among Democrats
By October 2023, Gallup, Inc. found that Joe Biden's approval rating among Democrats had reached a record low of 75%.
October 2023: Easing of Inflation
By October 2023, inflation eased to 3.2%.
October 2023: Domestic Oil Production Reached Record High
Despite clean energy policies and congressional Republicans characterizing them as a "War on American Energy", domestic oil production reached a record high in October 2023.
October 2023: Increased Deportations
From October 2023 to September 2024, deportations reached the highest level since 2014.
October 2023: Biden voices support for Israel after Hamas attack
In October 2023, following a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel, President Biden affirmed his strong support for Israel and condemned Hamas's actions. He deployed aircraft carriers to the region, requested $14 billion in military aid for Israel, and later urged Israel to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While rejecting calls for a ceasefire, Biden supported humanitarian pauses and facilitated aid delivery to Palestinians.
October 2023: Biden Requests Additional Aid for Ukraine
In October 2023, the Biden administration requested an additional $61.4 billion in aid for Ukraine for the year ahead.
December 13, 2023: House formalizes impeachment inquiry against Biden
On December 13, 2023, the House of Representatives voted 221–212 to formalize an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, initiated by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, based on allegations of corruption involving Biden and his family. However, congressional investigations had, as of December 2023, found no evidence of wrongdoing by Biden.
December 2023: House investigations discover no evidence of wrongdoing by Biden
As of December 2023, Congressional investigations, most notably by the House Oversight committee, have discovered no evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden, despite an ongoing impeachment inquiry.
December 2023: Record High Illegal Border Crossings
In December 2023, illegal border crossings at the Mexico-United States border reached an all-time monthly high.
December 22, 2023: Biden Pardons Cannabis Use on Federal Lands
On December 22, 2023, Biden pardoned Americans for cannabis use or possession on federal lands regardless of whether they had been charged or prosecuted.
2023: Biden's Approval Rating Was the Lowest of Any Modern U.S. President
In 2023, after three years in office, Joe Biden's approval rating was the lowest of any modern U.S. president.
January 2024: Humanitarian Parole Admissions
As of January 2024, over a million migrants had been admitted to the U.S. under humanitarian parole.
January 2024: Biden Supports Bipartisan Immigration Deal
In January 2024, Biden expressed support for a proposed bipartisan immigration deal led by Senators Kyrsten Sinema and James Lankford.
January 17, 2024: House Passes Resolution Denouncing Border Handling
On January 17, 2024, a Republican-led non-binding resolution denouncing the Biden-Harris administration's handling of the U.S. southern border passed the House of Representatives.
February 8, 2024: Special counsel concludes investigation, no charges for Biden
On February 8, 2024, Special Counsel Robert Hur concluded his investigation into President Biden's handling of classified documents and announced that no charges would be brought against him. This concluded a period of intense scrutiny and legal examination.
February 2024: Informant in Biden bribery allegations charged with making false statements
In February 2024, Alexander Smirnov, a former intelligence informant who played a significant role in the bribery allegations against President Biden, was charged with making false statements to the FBI. Smirnov admitted to publicizing a false story provided by Russian intelligence with the intent to damage Biden's re-election campaign.
February 2024: Biden Ranked 14th-Greatest President by Historians
In February 2024, an American Political Science Association poll ranked Joe Biden as the 14th-greatest president, noting that this high ranking was unusual given the absence of military victories or institutional expansion during his presidency.
February 29, 2024: Biden acknowledges insufficient aid to Gaza after civilian deaths
Following the killing of Palestinian civilians receiving food aid on February 29, 2024, President Biden stated that the level of aid reaching Gaza was insufficient, leading to increased pressure for more humanitarian assistance.
March 2024: Gallup poll reveals strong disapproval of Israeli actions in Gaza
A March 2024 Gallup poll indicated that a majority of Americans disapproved of Israel's military actions in Gaza, with 55% expressing disapproval and younger Americans showing significantly less support for Israel than older generations.
April 2024: Gaza war protests emerge on university campuses
Beginning in April 2024, widespread protests related to the Gaza war began on university campuses, with protestors denouncing President Biden's approach to the conflict.
April 2024: Biden Unveils Plan to Restore Water Sources
In April 2024, Biden unveiled a plan to protect and restore natural water sources, including wetlands, rivers, and streams.
April 2024: Biden signs Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act
In April 2024, President Biden signed into law the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. This act potentially bans social networking services, like TikTok, controlled by foreign adversaries, particularly those based in China, within 270 to 360 days unless they are divested from foreign control.
April 2024: Additional Aid for Ukraine Added
In April 2024, the additional $61 billion in aid to Ukraine was added.
May 2024: Biden continues support for Israel amidst domestic opposition
As of May 2024, President Biden continued to support Israel during the war, despite increasing domestic opposition and widespread protests. Public disapproval of Israeli conduct in Gaza was strong, particularly among young Americans. Protests emerged on university campuses in April 2024 denouncing Biden's stance on the conflict.
May 2024: Exception Granted for Use of Weapons Against Russian Targets
In May 2024, an exception was granted for targets in the vicinity of Kharkiv for "counter-fire" purposes.
May 2024: Biden administration doubles and triples tariffs on Chinese imports
In May 2024, the Biden administration significantly increased tariffs on various imports from China, including doubling tariffs on solar cells and more than tripling tariffs on lithium-ion electric vehicle batteries. Tariffs were also raised on Chinese steel, aluminum, and medical materials, escalating trade tensions between the two countries.
May 31, 2024: Biden announces 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 a large-scale attack. The proposal aimed to establish a permanent ceasefire, release all hostages, and reconstruct Gaza. While Hamas officials supported the proposal, the Netanyahu administration indicated that Israel's goals regarding Hamas had not changed and that conditions would need to be met before agreeing to a ceasefire.
June 2024: Media amplifies concerns about Biden's mental acuity after debate
After a perceived weak performance in a June 2024 presidential debate, concerns about President Biden's mental acuity were amplified by the media, leading to increased scrutiny of his fitness for office. Special counsel Robert Hur, in his report, suggested Biden could be seen as an "elderly man with poor memory."
June 2024: Executive Action on Immigration
In June 2024, Biden issued an executive action offering amnesty to unauthorized immigrants married to American citizens, including a pathway to residency and citizenship. It was later struck down.
June 2024: Executive Order Restricting Border
In June 2024, Biden issued an executive order allowing the president to restrict the Mexico–U.S. border.
June 27, 2024: First presidential debate held between Biden and Trump
On June 27, 2024, the first presidential debate between President Biden and Donald Trump took place. Biden's performance was widely criticized for meandering answers, leading to questions about his health and age and calls for him to withdraw from the race.
July 2024: All-Time Low Approval Rating Just Before Election Withdrawal
In July 2024, Gallup, Inc. found that Joe Biden's approval rating had fallen to an all-time low of 36%, just before he withdrew from the 2024 presidential election.
July 17, 2024: Biden tests positive for COVID-19 again
On July 17, 2024, President Biden tested positive for COVID-19 again, marking another instance of the President contracting the virus.
August 6, 2024: Harris Confirmed as Democratic Nominee
On August 6, 2024, Kamala Harris was confirmed as the Democratic presidential nominee after securing 99% of the delegates in a virtual roll call vote, following Biden's withdrawal from the race.
August 2024: US Aid to Afghanistan
As of August 2024, the U.S. continued to send aid to Afghanistan, remaining the country's biggest aid donor, spending at least $20.7 billion post-withdrawal.
August 2024: Ankara Prisoner Exchange
In August 2024, Biden negotiated and oversaw the 2024 Ankara prisoner exchange, involving the release of 26 people, including American journalist Evan Gershkovich and former United States Marine Paul Whelan.
September 2024: Increased Deportations Continue
From October 2023 to September 2024, deportations reached the highest level since 2014.
September 25, 2024: House Condemns Biden Administration for Afghanistan Withdrawal
On September 25, 2024, the United States House of Representatives passed a resolution condemning the Biden-Harris Administration for the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
September 30, 2024: "On Ramp" Period Extension
Biden extended the COVID-19 student loan pause through September 2023, with an "on ramp" period that extended some of the pause's protections against credit reporting, collection efforts, and late payment fees through September 30, 2024.
October 2024: Refusal to Block Port Strike
In October 2024, Biden refused to block a port strike from the International Longshoremen's Association.
November 2024: Ceasefire Agreement in Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
In November 2024, the Biden administration announced that it had helped broker a ceasefire agreement in the Israel–Hezbollah conflict.
December 1, 2024: Biden Pardons Hunter Biden
On December 1, 2024, Biden issued a "full and unconditional" pardon to Hunter Biden covering all federal offenses between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2024.
December 12, 2024: Biden Grants Clemency to Nonviolent Felons
On December 12, 2024, Biden granted clemency to about 1,500 nonviolent felons in home confinement, marking the largest single-day clemency act in history.
December 2024: Pardoned Hunter Biden
In December 2024, Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden following his conviction on gun and tax charges, despite repeated promises that he would not do so.
December 2024: Delivery Shortfalls of Aid to Ukraine
In December 2024, Ukraine receiving 30% of the vehicles the U.S. announced it would provide in 2024.
December 2024: Negative Assessments of Biden's Presidency
In December 2024, a Gallup poll found that 54% of Americans rated Joe Biden's presidency as below average or poor. Americans largely offered negative assessments on economic, national, and international issues.
December 2024: End of Term Inflation Rates
In December 2024, the last full month of Biden's term, the inflation rate reached 2.9% and core inflation rate reached 3.2% on an annual basis.
December 23, 2024: Biden Commutes Sentences of Death Row Inmates
On December 23, 2024, Biden commuted the sentences of 37 out of 40 federal death row inmates.
December 29, 2024: Death of Jimmy Carter
On December 29, 2024, Jimmy Carter died, prompting comparisons between his presidency and Joe Biden's, particularly concerning economic challenges and single-term presidencies.
2024: Longest Serving Senator
As of 2024, Joe Biden was the 19th-longest-serving senator in U.S. history.
2024: Dana Carvey Portrayal on SNL
In 2024, Dana Carvey played the role of Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live.
2024: Public Deems Biden's Presidency a Failure
In 2024, Joe Biden's presidency was widely considered a failure due to public frustration with inflation, which voters prioritized over other economic factors, contributing to Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election.
2024: Biden competes in 2024 Democratic presidential primaries
In 2024, President Biden competed in the Democratic presidential primaries, facing challenges from candidates like Dean Phillips. Despite not being on the ballot in the New Hampshire primary, Biden won it through a write-in campaign. He also secured victories in South Carolina, Nevada, and Michigan, ultimately winning 15 of 16 primaries on Super Tuesday.
2024: Biden Withdraws Candidacy
In 2024, after facing renewed scrutiny about his cognitive abilities following the first presidential debate, Biden withdrew his candidacy for reelection. Vice President Harris replaced him as the nominee but lost to Trump in the general election.
2024: Calls for Withdrawal from 2024 Election
In 2024, members of Joe Biden's party called on him to withdraw from the 2024 presidential election due to his age and unpopularity.
2024: Presidential Greatness Project Ranking
The 2024 Presidential Greatness Project Expert survey ranked Joe Biden the 14th best president.
2024: Biden campaigns for reelection in 2024
Throughout 2024, Biden campaigned for reelection as president, emphasizing economic growth and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and frequently stating his intention to "finish the job."
January 9, 2025: Biden Eulogizes Jimmy Carter
On January 9, 2025, Joe Biden delivered the eulogy for Jimmy Carter, further emphasizing the comparisons between their presidencies and their shared experiences as Democratic leaders.
January 2025: Equal Rights Amendment Declaration
In January 2025, Biden declared the lapsed Equal Rights Amendment ratified as the "28th Amendment" to the constitution. The declaration has no formal effect.
January 2025: Biden Claims He Could Have Defeated Trump
In January 2025, Joe Biden stated in an interview that he believed he could have defeated Donald Trump in the election had he not withdrawn, despite polling data suggesting otherwise.
January 2025: Final Approval Rating
In January 2025, Joe Biden's final approval rating was at 40%, according to Gallup. Other polls showed his approval rating as low as 36%.
January 2025: Unfavorable Comparison to Previous Presidents
In January 2025, an AP-NORC poll indicated that Americans viewed Joe Biden's presidency less favorably than they did Barack Obama's at the end of his second term or Donald Trump's at the end of his first.
January 20, 2025: End of Biden's Presidential Term
On January 20, 2025, Joe Biden's presidential term ended with Donald Trump's second inauguration. Following this, Biden moved back to Wilmington, Delaware, and signed with talent agency CAA.
February 7, 2025: Trump Revokes Biden's Security Clearance
On February 7, 2025, Donald Trump revoked Joe Biden's security clearance, ending his access to classified information as part of a broader review of security clearances for former officials.
