Joe Biden's 'Final Warning': 6 Key Takeaways From President's Candid Remarks on America's Incoming 'Oligarchy'

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8:55am PST, Jan 16, 2025

'Oligarchy' Taking Shape

In his farewell address on Wednesday, January 15,  President Joe Biden expressed deep concerns about the emergence of a "tech-industrial complex" in the United States. Biden cautioned that a new concentration of power among ultra-wealthy tech moguls poses significant risks to American democracy. 

He stated, "Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America, of extreme wealth, power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy."

It was clear the Commander-in-Chief was alluding to President-elect Donald Trump's growing "buddy, buddy" dynamic with tech titans Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and to the surprise of many, Jeff Bezos — or "Jeff Bozo" as Trump once referred to the Amazon founder.

The "most unpopular president in U.S. history" may have taken a swipe at Nancy Pelosi too in these six key takeaways form Biden's curtain call. 

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Implicit Critique of Tech Titans

While Biden refrained from naming individuals, his remarks were widely interpreted as critiques of prominent figures like Musk, Zuckerberg and Bezos. These tech leaders have recently aligned with Trump, raising concerns about their influence on political processes and public discourse. 
Biden's reference to the abandonment of fact-checking by social media platforms appeared to target Zuckerberg's decision to shift Facebook's approach to content moderation.
Social media posters and analysts were quick to call "hypocrisy" on the leader's part by claiming the same billionaires helped him in the 2020 election by censoring "unfavorable" coverage, specifically on his son, Hunter Biden's laptop scandal.

Concerns Over Misinformation and Media Integrity

The president highlighted the dangers of misinformation proliferating through social media, lamenting the decline of traditional fact-checking mechanisms. 

He warned that the erosion of a free press and the "spread of false information" threaten the foundational principles of democracy. The 46th Commander-in-Chief emphasized the need to hold social platforms accountable to protect democratic values and prevent the "abuse of power."

Unfulfilled Policy Goals: AI Regulation and Tax Reforms

Reflecting on his tenure, Biden acknowledged certain unachieved objectives, notably in regulating artificial intelligence and implementing tax reforms. 
He pointed out the dual potential of AI to benefit society and pose risks if left unchecked, advocating for safeguards to ensure its responsible use. 
"The truth is smothered by lies told for power and for profit," he said. "We must hold the social platforms accountable to protect our children, our families and our very democracy."
Additionally, Biden reiterated his call for tax policies requiring the wealthy to "pay their fair share," aiming to reduce undue political influence and promote economic equality as he also called out insider trading on the stock market in Congress, which his longtime pal, perhaps ex-friend, Pelosi was accused of. 

Emphasis on Family Amidst Controversy

During his address, Biden declared, "To me, family is everything," with his "disgraced" son present in the Oval Office. 
This statement drew attention, considering recent controversies involving Hunter, including legal issues and a recent presidential pardon. 

Call for Constitutional Amendments and Institutional Reforms

The politician proposed several institutional reforms, including amending the Constitution to clarify that no president is immune from prosecution for "crimes" committed while in office — a clear jab at his predecessor and soon-to-be successor. 
He also advocated for Supreme Court term limits, suggesting 18-year terms to prevent lifetime appointments. 
A Biden supporter shared on X, "These recommendations reflect his concerns about the concentration of power and the need for checks and balances within the government."

Parting Words and Hopes for the Future

Concluding his address, the president expressed his wishes for the incoming administration's success, stating, "I wish the incoming administration success because I want America to succeed." 
Despite the critical tone of his speech, the Democrat also expressed hope for the nation's future, emphasizing the importance of "unity" and the continued prosperity of the United States.
Trump 2.0 kicks off with his second inauguration on Monday, January 20. 

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