Outgoing US President Joe Biden issued a stark warning about the establishment of a dangerous oligarchic rule in the United States during his last address to the nation on Wednesday (15 January).
Biden expressed grave concerns over the consolidation of wealth, power, and influence in the hands of a select group, posing a significant threat to the country’s internal democracy, reports the AFP.
He stressed the need for collective action to protect fundamental rights and freedoms, emphasising the urgency of resisting such concentrated authority.
"A governance structure characterized by immense wealth, power, and prestige is on the rise. This poses a direct threat to our democratic fabric. We must all advance to preserve our essential rights and liberties," he asserted.
As Republican president-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume office, Biden highlighted the spread of misinformation among the American populace, warning that such dissemination paves the way for the misuse of power and the erosion of press freedom.
"Misinformation and disinformation are engulfing Americans, creating opportunities for power to be abused," he cautioned, drawing attention to the increasing challenges faced by the media.
Addressing the critical issue of climate change, Biden lamented that efforts to mitigate its impacts are at risk of being undone by influential forces.
"The measures we have taken to combat climate change are under threat from those wielding unchecked influence," he remarked.
This statement stands in stark contrast to Trump’s previous dismissal of climate change concerns as mere mockery.
Biden’s speech underscored the need for vigilance and unity in the face of these mounting challenges, leaving a resonant call to action for the preservation of democracy in the United States.
