US Presidential Election 2024: Joe Biden to run for a second term

US President Joe Biden has officially launched his re-election campaign, asking Americans to give him another chance to finish what he has started.

"Every generation has a moment where they have had to stand up for democracy," Biden tweeted.

Photo Credit: US President Joe Biden

"To stand up for their fundamental freedoms. I believe this is ours. That is why I am running for re-election as President of the United States. Join us. Let us finish the job," he added.

The 80-year-old made the announcement in a three-minute video, which opened with images of the January 6, 2021, insurrection and abortion rights activists protesting at the US Supreme Court.

"Freedom. Personal freedom is fundamental to who we are as Americans.There is nothing more important, nothing more sacred. That's been the work of my first term to fight for our democracy, to protect our rights, to make sure that everyone in this country is treated equally and that everyone is given a fair shot at making it," Biden said in the video.

In the video, Biden warned about "MAGA extremists" lining up to take away personal liberties and cutting social security while lowering taxes for the rich.

"Cutting Social Security that you have paid for your entire life while cutting taxes for the very wealthy. Dictating what health care decisions women can make, banning books, and telling people who they can love. All while making it more difficult for you to be able to vote," Biden said.

Biden termed the 2024 election as a fight against Republican extremism, arguing he needed more time to fully realise his vow to restore the nation's character.

"When I ran for president four years ago, I said we are in a battle for the soul of America. And we still are," he said.

"The question we are facing is whether in the years ahead we have more freedom or less freedom. More rights or fewer. I know what I want the answer to be and I think you do too. This is not a time to be complacent. That's why I'm running for reelection," he announced.