Washington Post columnist Matt Bai recently critiqued President Biden's decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, suggesting his legacy will be marred by his late departure from the political stage. Bai's assessment, published after President-elect Trump's victory and Vice President Harris's subsequent defeat, highlights the perceived miscalculation of the Biden campaign and the Democratic party.

Bai contends that Biden, despite a commendable career in public service, will be remembered for overstaying his time in office. He points to a June debate performance against Trump as a turning point, suggesting it revealed a disconnect between Biden's perceived capabilities and the realities of his campaign. The columnist implies that Biden's team, and even some members of the press, fostered a narrative that didn't align with the president's declining political strength.

Bai speculates on Biden's motivations, suggesting a reluctance to relinquish power. He also touches upon the internal dynamics within the Democratic party, noting concerns about Vice President Harris's electability and the party's aversion to potentially unpredictable primary contests. Despite reportedly low approval ratings, Biden apparently believed he was the strongest contender against Trump, a belief that seemingly persists even after the election results. Bai characterizes this as a significant misjudgment by the Democratic party.

The columnist draws a stark contrast between Biden's potential legacy and those of former presidents who received accolades and prestigious awards after leaving office. He suggests Biden's legacy will be less grand, perhaps symbolized by more modest commemorations. Bai also revisits earlier criticisms of Biden and his administration, accusing them of attempting to manipulate public perception and downplay concerns about the president's fitness for office. He concludes by questioning the integrity of those who promoted this narrative, contrasting it with Biden's own history of honorable service.

This post-election analysis paints a picture of a president clinging to power, a party grappling with internal doubts, and a disconnect between the presented image and the political realities. Bai's commentary offers a critical perspective on the 2024 election and its aftermath.