Outgoing United States President Joe Biden has issued a stark warning about a rising oligarchy in the country, which he described as a grave threat to democracy, basic rights, and freedoms.
Speaking during his farewell address from the White House, Biden reflected on his decades-long political career and outlined his concerns about the future.
The president expressed alarm at the rise of an ultra-wealthy “tech-industrial complex” that wields disproportionate influence over society. This, he argued, poses a significant danger to the principles of democratic governance.
In his final televised speech, Biden also highlighted pressing issues such as climate change and the proliferation of disinformation on social media. Addressing his administration’s achievements, he cited job creation, infrastructure investment, healthcare reform, pandemic recovery efforts, and advancements in public safety. While acknowledging that the full impact of these initiatives would take time to materialise, he expressed optimism about their long-term benefits, describing them as seeds that would flourish in the years ahead.
Biden also extended well-wishes to the incoming administration of Donald Trump but tempered his remarks with pointed caution. He emphasised that “much is at stake,” particularly in safeguarding environmental progress and countering the forces he accused of prioritising profit over climate action. He described efforts to undermine climate initiatives as the work of powerful forces seeking unchecked influence.
The outgoing president criticised social media companies, including Meta, for abandoning independent fact-checking and enabling the spread of misinformation. He warned of the dangers posed by an avalanche of misinformation that erodes public trust and empowers authoritarian tendencies.
Biden’s critique of a wealthy tech elite appeared to target figures such as Elon Musk, who has close ties to Trump and has provided significant financial support to his campaign. Other prominent industry leaders, including Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg, were also noted for their efforts to strengthen ties with the incoming administration.
Concluding his address, Biden urged Americans to remain vigilant in protecting democratic values. “May you all be the keepers of the flame,” he implored, encouraging unity and resilience during uncertain times.
The speech also coincided with Biden’s announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Describing the negotiations as some of the most challenging of his career, Biden took credit for brokering the deal, which is set to take effect on 19 January, a day before Trump assumes office. Trump, in turn, has claimed that the agreement was facilitated by his electoral victory.
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