Biden’s Call for Constitutional Amendment to Ensure Presidential Accountability

Elderly man in suit with crowd in background.

President Biden’s final address calls for a constitutional amendment to ensure presidential accountability, sparking debate on executive power and immunity.

At a Glance

Biden proposes a constitutional amendment to end presidential immunity for crimes committed in office
The President warns of an emerging oligarchy and criticizes the “tech industrial complex”
Biden suggests higher taxes on billionaires and stricter campaign contribution rules
The farewell address marks the end of Biden’s presidency and outlines his vision for America’s future

Biden’s Call for Constitutional Change

In his final address to the nation, President Joe Biden made a bold proposal for a constitutional amendment to ensure that presidents can be held accountable for crimes committed while in office. This call comes in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling that affirmed presidential immunity for “official acts” related to their duties, a decision that Biden criticized as potentially leading to unchecked power at the highest level of government.

The President’s proposal challenges the Supreme Court’s decision and raises questions about the balance of power in the American political system. Biden’s push for this amendment underscores his concern about the potential for abuse of power and the need for checks and balances, even at the highest levels of government.

Warnings of an Emerging Oligarchy

During his address, Biden expressed deep concern about the state of American democracy, warning of what he sees as a dangerous trend towards oligarchy. He criticized the concentration of wealth and power among a select few, as well as the spread of misinformation through social media and what he termed the “tech industrial complex.”

“an oligarchy is taking shape in America” – Biden

The President’s warnings highlight his view that the foundations of American democracy are under threat, not just from external forces but from internal dynamics that concentrate power and influence in the hands of a few. His address served as a call to action for Americans to remain vigilant in protecting their democratic institutions.

Proposed Reforms and Policy Changes

In addition to the constitutional amendment on presidential accountability, Biden outlined several other proposals aimed at strengthening American democracy. These included higher taxes on billionaires, stricter rules on campaign contributions, 18-year term limits for Supreme Court justices, and a ban on stock trading for members of Congress.

“We must not be bullied into sacrificing the future” – Biden

These proposals reflect Biden’s vision for a more equitable and accountable political system. However, implementing such changes, especially a constitutional amendment, would require significant bipartisan support and agreement from a majority of states – a challenging prospect in the current political climate.

The Farewell Address: Context and Significance

Biden delivered his farewell address from the Oval Office, with family members and Vice President Kamala Harris present. The speech was part of a series of events marking the end of his presidency, including policy announcements and reflections on his time in office. Biden acknowledged Harris as a great partner and expressed hope for a smooth transition to the next administration.

The President’s address emphasized the importance of democracy, unity, and providing fair opportunities for all citizens. His call for constitutional change and other reforms sets the stage for ongoing debates about the future direction of American politics and governance.

As Biden’s presidency comes to a close, his final address serves as both a reflection on his time in office and a roadmap for the challenges he sees facing the nation. The proposed constitutional amendment and other reforms will likely be topics of discussion and debate in the political arena for some time to come.