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. served as the 46th U.S. President (2021-2025). A Democrat, he previously represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 2009. He also served as the 47th Vice President under President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017.

Sections (7)

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

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.

2008: Chosen as Obama's Running Mate

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

December 2010: Compromise Tax Package

In December 2010, Biden's advocacy for a middle ground and his negotiations with Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell were instrumental in producing the administration's compromise tax package that included a temporary extension of the Bush tax cuts. The package passed as the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.

May 2012: Statement on Same-Sex Marriage

In May 2012, Biden's statement that he was "absolutely comfortable" with same-sex marriage gained considerable public attention and forced Obama to shift his position on the issue.

November 2020: Biden elected as the 46th President

In November 2020, Joe Biden was elected as the 46th President of the United States, defeating incumbent Donald Trump. The transition process was delayed due to false claims of electoral fraud by Trump.

2020: Won the presidential election

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

January 20, 2021: Biden Inaugurated as 46th President

On January 20, 2021, Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 46th President of the United States. At 78, he was the oldest person to assume the office at that time. The inauguration was a muted affair due to COVID-19 precautions and increased security.

February 2021: High Approval Rating Among Democrats

In February 2021, Joe Biden had a 98% approval rating among Democrats, as found by Gallup, Inc.

2021: Biden signs American Rescue Plan Act

In 2021, Joe Biden signed into law the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus and relief package to support the U.S.'s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

August 7, 2022: Senate Passes Inflation Reduction Act

On August 7, 2022, the Senate passed the Inflation Reduction Act by a 51-50 vote, with Vice President Kamala Harris breaking the tie.

2022: Biden signs Respect for Marriage Act

In 2022, Joe Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act, which repealed the Defense of Marriage Act and requires the federal government to recognize the validity of same-sex and interracial marriages.

2022: Siena College Research Institute's survey ranking

The Siena College Research Institute's 2022 survey ranked Joe Biden 19th out of 45 presidents.

2023: Debt Limit Deal

In 2023, Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy reached a deal to raise the debt limit, resulting in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. This act suspended the debt limit until January 2025, averting a potential U.S. default and was generally seen as favorable to Biden.