After four years in the White House: What is Joe Biden’s Legacy in the United States?
Biden's presidency came to an end and after four years in the White House. How Americans will remember the 46th President of the United States.
As President Joe Biden’s term comes to an end, his presidency is being closely analyzed by historians, analysts, and the public. From tackling a global pandemic to navigating significant domestic and international challenges, Biden’s leadership has left a lasting impact.
While his administration is credited with major legislative achievements and international diplomacy, it has also faced criticism, particularly regarding inflation and public sentiment. The question remains: how will Joe Biden’s legacy be remembered in the annals of U.S. history?
Biden's domestic achievements and challenges
Upon taking office in January 2021, Biden prioritized addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. His administration rapidly rolled out vaccinations and implemented the American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion stimulus package that provided financial assistance to households, supported state and local governments, and bolstered public health efforts. By mid-May 2021, over 250 million vaccine doses had been administered under his leadership, signaling a major milestone in the pandemic response.
Biden’s legislative accomplishments include the Inflation Reduction Act, which targeted climate change, health care affordability, and tax reforms; the CHIPS Act, which aimed to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing; and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allocated funds to modernize America’s aging infrastructure. His administration also passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, marking progress in gun safety legislation.
Despite these achievements, Joe Biden faced criticism for rising inflation, which peaked at a 40-year high during his presidency before showing signs of cooling later. Some economists argue that the significant government spending under his administration may have contributed to inflationary pressures, though others credit these measures for stabilizing the economy during a turbulent period.
Foreign policy and Global leadership
On the international stage, Biden focused on restoring alliances and re-engaging with global organizations. His administration supported Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, providing military and humanitarian aid, while also implementing measures to counter China’s growing influence. These efforts demonstrated a shift from the isolationist policies of the previous administration, emphasizing multilateral cooperation and global stability.
Joe Biden's presidency has significant achievements and challenges in the US. Photo: AFP.
However, Biden’s foreign policy wasn’t without controversy. The chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in 2021 drew widespread criticism and was seen as a major blemish on his presidency. While his administration defended the decision as necessary, the execution of the withdrawal left a lasting mark on public perception of his leadership.
American and public perception about Joe Biden's Presidency
Public opinion on Biden’s presidency remains divided. According to a recent Gallup poll, 54% of Americans believe he will be remembered as a below-average or poor president, while 19% view his tenure as outstanding or above average. Critics point to rising costs, immigration challenges, and political polarization as areas where Biden struggled to deliver solutions.
Historians, however, suggest that Biden’s legacy may be judged more favorably over time. Ellen Fitzpatrick, history professor at the University of New Hampshire, said to ABC News that Biden’s early policy initiatives and emphasis on governance during a time of crisis could position him as a transformative leader when viewed through the lens of history.