Joseph R. Biden Jr., born on November 20, 1942, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is the 46th President of the United States. He was born to Joseph R. Biden Sr. and Catherine Eugenia Finnegan. Biden's family was of Irish descent and deeply Catholic. Raised in a middle-class family, he moved to Delaware in his youth, where he would begin his extensive political career. Biden attended the University of Delaware and later earned his law degree from Syracuse University.

Early Political Career

Biden's political journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication. It began with his election to the New Castle County Council in 1970, followed by his election to the U.S. Senate in 1972 at the age of 29, making him one of the youngest people ever elected to the U.S. Senate. Biden played pivotal roles in significant legislative efforts, including the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act and the Violence Against Women Act.

Biden's first presidential bid began in 1988 as a young and energetic U.S. Senator from Delaware with a reputation for eloquence and a promising political future. Biden aimed to position himself as a fresh face among Democratic contenders. His campaign focused on themes of generational change and a progressive vision for the future. However, Biden's initial run was short-lived, and he withdrew from the race after a series of controversies and a lack of support from voters.

Two decades later, Biden launched his second presidential campaign for the 2008 election. By then, he was a seasoned legislator with a wealth of experience. Biden's campaign emphasized his extensive knowledge of international affairs and his working-class roots, positioning himself as a candidate who could appeal to blue-collar voters and the Democratic establishment. His campaign also focused on his record of bipartisan cooperation and his ability to build consensus. Despite his credentials, Biden struggled to gain traction in a crowded field dominated by high-profile candidates like Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

Vice President of the United States

2008 U.S. presidential Democratic nominee Barack Obama selected Biden as his running mate, valuing his experience and expertise. Biden served as Vice President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. His tenure was marked by significant influence and involvement in major policy initiatives. Biden was a key advisor crucial to the administration's foreign and domestic policies. He was instrumental in shaping the response to the 2008 financial crisis, helping to implement the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which aimed to stimulate economic growth and save jobs. Biden also focused on foreign policy and advocating for international diplomacy. Domestically, he led efforts on issues such as gun control and was a prominent advocate for the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, Biden chaired the Middle-Class Task Force, emphasizing policies to support working families. His experience and expertise made him a trusted partner to President Obama and a pivotal figure in the administration's successes and challenges.

2020 U.S. Presidential Election and Presidency

Biden announced his presidential candidacy in April 2019 and won the Democratic nomination in 2020. Biden faced Republican nominee and incumbent President Donald Trump in the general election. Biden won the 2020 U.S. presidential election with 306 electoral votes to Trump's 232 and was inaugurated on January 20, 2021, amid significant political and social challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, economic upheaval, and a deeply divided nation. Biden chose then-California U.S. Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate, marking her as the first female, Black, and Asian-American Vice President.

As President, Biden has prioritized tackling the pandemic, addressing climate change, promoting racial equity, and revitalizing the economy. His legislative achievements include the American Rescue Plan Act, aimed at pandemic relief; the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, focusing on rebuilding the nation's infrastructure; and the Inflation Reduction Act, addressing deficit reduction and climate change. Biden's presidency also emphasizes restoring U.S. alliances and leadership on the global stage.

Throughout his career, Biden has been known for his resilience and personal empathy, shaped by personal tragedies, including the loss of his first wife and daughter in a car accident and the death of his son Beau from brain cancer. These experiences have profoundly influenced his approach to public service and leadership.