Biden is the first president since 1968 to not run for re-election.

President Biden shocked the nation on Sunday by announcing his decision to drop out of the presidential race, becoming the first president since 1968 to not seek re-election. This unprecedented move comes with just 183 days left in his current term, and 29 days before the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 19, 2024.

The last time a sitting president made a similar decision was on March 31, 1968, when President Lyndon B. Johnson announced he would not seek re-election with 295 days remaining in his term. Before him, President Harry S. Truman made a similar announcement on March 29, 1952, and Calvin Coolidge did the same on Aug. 2, 1927.

Biden’s decision to step down means that he will not face former President Trump in a 2024 rematch. This development marks an unusual turn in U.S. presidential history, as only three presidents have previously upheld their promise to serve only one term.

President Rutherford B. Hayes, for instance, announced in advance that he would not seek a second term, and honored his commitment by retiring to Spiegel Grove, his residence in Fremont, Ohio, in 1881. Similarly, President James Buchanan pledged to serve only one term amidst the turmoil surrounding slavery during his presidency.

Another notable figure who chose not to run for re-election was President James K. Polk. He kept his word and did not seek a second term, allowing Zachary Taylor to succeed him in office, despite harboring personal animosity towards Taylor.

Biden’s unexpected decision has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, raising questions about the future of the Democratic Party and the upcoming presidential race. As the nation grapples with this unexpected turn of events, speculations and analyses abound regarding the potential candidates who may step in to fill the void left by Biden’s exit.

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