United States Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has praised President Joe Biden as an “extraordinary guardian” of the country’s security, following Biden’s announcement that he is withdrawing from the presidential race.
Austin expressed deep gratitude for Biden’s leadership and statesmanship.
He said, “He has a secure place in American history as one of our great foreign-policy presidents. President Biden has been a stalwart defender of free government, a fearless foe of tyranny, and a historic champion of an open world of rules, rights, and responsibilities.”
Austin’s statement reflects the high regard in which Biden is held by the US military and defence establishment. As Defence Secretary, Austin has worked closely with Biden on various national security issues, and his comments highlight the President’s commitment to defending American values and interests.
The Defence Secretary also noted that the entire Department of Defence stands united in saluting President Biden’s service to the country, the Constitution, and the republic. He quoted Biden’s own words, saying:
“President Biden has repeatedly declared, we will lead not merely by the example of our power but by the power of our example. Today, he has done just that.”