President Joe Biden warns oligarchy threatening 'entire democracy'
Share and Follow


() President Joe Biden used his farewell address to the nation Wednesday to warn of an “oligarchy” of the ultra-wealthy taking root in the country and of a “tech-industrial complex” that is infringing on Americans’ rights and the future of democracy.

“Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power and influence that really threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedom and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead,” Biden said in his farewell address from the Oval Office.

Biden also highlighted his concern for misinformation spread, stating that “the free press is crumbling” and that social media platforms need to be held accountable.

The speech was originally set to reflect on Biden’s presidency as well as the moment in which the country finds itself as President-elect Donald Trump takes office next week. White House officials said the address will not include “a laundry list” of Biden’s accomplishments as president but rather an overview of the time since Biden took office in 2021.

In a letter released Wednesday morning, Biden said the country has the strongest economy in the world after his administration created a record 16.6 million jobs. He also said inflation continues to come down while the racial cap is the lowest it has been in 20 years.

“I ran for president because I believed that the soul of America was at stake,” Biden wrote. “The very nature of who we are was at stake. And, that’s still the case.”

Biden called serving the U.S. for more than 50 years the “privilege of my life” and wrote he has “been blessed a million times in return with the love and support of the American people.”

“History is in your hands,” Biden wrote. “The power is in your hands. The idea of America lies in your hands. We just have to keep the faith and remember who we are. We are the United States of America, and there is simply nothing beyond our capacity when we do it together.”

Biden is considering taking additional actions as president before Trump assumes control of the White House on Monday. Biden, who commuted about 1,500 sentences in December, is said to be considering more pardons and executive orders, which could be difficult for Trump to undo once he takes office.

Biden issued 39 presidential pardons to Americans convicted of nonviolent crimes; several were issued to people who have already been released from prison.  Among the pardons issued was one for Biden’s son, Hunter, who the president previously said he would not pardon.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Supreme Court delay may bode Trump win in high-stakes tariff fight, experts say

Supreme Court’s Delay Signals Potential Victory for Trump in Crucial Tariff Battle, Experts Predict

President Donald Trump’s likelihood of emerging victorious in a Supreme Court battle…
Magnitude 6.0 earthquake strikes West Coast and felt in major cities

Powerful 6.0 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes West Coast, Impact Felt Across Major Cities

A powerful earthquake off the coast of Oregon has sent tremors through…
Scientists pinpoint  type of fat which can control blood pressure

Revolutionary Discovery: The Surprising Type of Fat That Regulates Blood Pressure Naturally

A dearth of ‘beige fat’ in the body may lead to a…
Father credits 7-year-old daughter with saving his life after fall in Lynwood home; police, fire chiefs congratulate her

Heroic 7-Year-Old Daughter Saves Father’s Life After Lynwood Home Accident; Commended by Police and Fire Chiefs

A 7-year-old girl from Lynwood, Illinois, is earning praise for her heroic…
What is frostbite? Here’s how to spot the signs early

Frostbite Warning: Early Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips You Need to Know

Frostbite can set in much quicker than many people anticipate. CLEVELAND —…
Former TV anchor accused of stabbing 80-year-old mother to death, telling police she did it to 'save herself'

Ex-TV Anchor’s Murder Case Stalled: Court Finds Her Mentally Unfit to Stand Trial

The legal proceedings against a former TV news anchor, accused of murdering…
Trump’s push to acquire Greenland sparks international media frenzy on remote island

Trump’s Proposal to Purchase Greenland Ignites Global Media Attention on the Island

As President Donald Trump intensifies his push to acquire Greenland, an influx…
FILE - President Donald Trump gestures to a chart as he speaks at Mount Airy Casino Resort, Dec. 9, 2025, in Mount Pocono, Pa. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

New Poll Reveals Insights on Trump Supporters’ Satisfaction in His Second Term: Are Expectations Being Met?

NEW YORK (AP) — As President Donald Trump approaches the end of…