Joe Biden

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Neilia Hunter, Joe, Hunter, Naomi Christina, and Beau Biden, c. 1972

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Joe Biden in 1968 Edition of Onondagan Yearbook

Joe and Jilly Biden early photo

Joe Biden and Jimmy Carter

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Joe Biden is the 46th and current President of the United States, having assumed office on January 20, 2021. Before his presidency, Biden served as the 47th Vice President of the United States from 2009 to 2017 under President Barack Obama. He is a member of the Democratic Party and has had a long career in politics, also serving as a United States Senator from Delaware from 1973 to 2009.

Early Life and Education

Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was born on November 20, 1942, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to Catherine Eugenia "Jean" Biden (née Finnegan) and Joseph Robinette Biden Sr. He was the first of four siblings. The Biden family moved to Claymont, Delaware, when Joe was 10 years old. Biden attended the University of Delaware, where he studied history and political science and played football. He then went on to earn his law degree from Syracuse University College of Law.

Political Career

Biden's political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the New Castle County Council. In 1972, at the age of 29, he became one of the youngest people ever elected to the United States Senate. Biden went on to serve in the Senate for six terms, where he was known for his work on foreign relations, criminal justice, and drug policy. He was also a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and played a key role in the passage of the Violence Against Women Act.

In 2008, Biden was chosen by Barack Obama as his running mate, and they won the presidential election that year. As Vice President, Biden was involved in foreign policy decisions and was tasked with overseeing infrastructure spending from the 2009 economic stimulus package. He was known for his role in policy regarding Iraq, Ukraine, and the Balkans.

Presidency

Biden announced his candidacy for the 2020 presidential election and won the Democratic nomination. He chose Kamala Harris as his running mate, making her the first female vice president and the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history. Biden's campaign focused on COVID-19 pandemic response, economic recovery, and unity. He won the election against incumbent Donald Trump and was inaugurated on January 20, 2021.

During his presidency, Biden has focused on a wide range of issues including the COVID-19 pandemic response, climate change, and social equity. He signed the American Rescue Plan Act to aid in the country's recovery from the pandemic and has been involved in international diplomacy to restore America's alliances and position in the world.

Personal Life

Biden married Neilia Hunter in 1966, and they had three children together. Tragically, Neilia and their one-year-old daughter, Naomi, were killed in a car accident in 1972. Biden's sons, Beau and Hunter, survived the accident. Beau Biden, who served as the Attorney General of Delaware, died of brain cancer in 2015. In 1977, Biden married Jill Jacobs, with whom he has a daughter, Ashley. Jill Biden has been an advocate for education and military families.

Legacy

Biden's long career in public service and his tenure as both Vice President and President have made him a significant figure in American politics. His efforts to address major issues like the pandemic, climate change, and international relations are key aspects of his legacy.