Joe Biden's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Joe Biden. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who served as the 46th U.S. president (2021-2025). A Democrat, he previously held the position of the 47th vice president (2009-2017). Prior to his executive roles, Biden represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 2009, marking a lengthy career in American politics.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1972: Elected U.S. Senator from Delaware

In 1972, Biden defeated Republican incumbent J. Caleb Boggs to become the junior U.S. senator from Delaware.

2008: Chosen as Obama's Running Mate

In 2008, Barack Obama chose Joe Biden as his running mate for the presidential election.

2013: Biden Negotiates Deal on Fiscal Cliff

In the final days before the United States fell off the "fiscal cliff" in 2013, Biden's relationship with McConnell 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.

April 8, 2020: Sanders Suspends Campaign, Biden Becomes Presumptive Nominee

On April 8, 2020, Bernie Sanders suspended his campaign, making Biden the Democratic Party's presumptive nominee.

August 18, 2020: Biden Officially Nominated for President

On August 18, 2020, at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, Biden officially became the Democratic Party nominee for president in the 2020 election.

November 2020: Biden Elected 46th President

In November 2020, Biden was elected the 46th president, defeating Donald Trump. Trump and numerous Republicans falsely claimed widespread electoral fraud occurred. Biden's transition was delayed until November 23, when the General Services Administrator formally recognized him as the winner.

2020: Won the 2020 Presidential Election

In 2020, Joe Biden won the presidential election with Kamala Harris as his running mate, defeating Donald Trump and Mike Pence.

August 9, 2022: U.S. Support for Sweden and Finland NATO Entry

On August 9, 2022, Biden signed the instruments of ratification stipulating U.S. support for Sweden and Finland's entry into NATO.

April 4, 2023: Finnish Ascension to NATO

On April 4, 2023, Finland formally ascended into NATO.

February 8, 2024: No Charges Against Biden in Classified Documents Case

On February 8, 2024, Special Counsel Robert Hur announced that no charges would be brought against Biden regarding the handling of classified documents.

March 7, 2024: Swedish Ascension to NATO

On March 7, 2024, formal Swedish ascension into NATO occurred following diplomatic talks led by Biden.

May 31, 2024: Biden's Support for Israeli Ceasefire Proposal

On May 31, 2024, Biden announced his support for an Israeli ceasefire proposal, citing that Hamas was "no longer capable" of another large-scale attack. The proposal aimed to establish a permanent ceasefire, release all hostages, and reconstruct the Gaza Strip, with Hamas officials supporting it after mediation.