Joe Biden

Joe Biden
👤No image available
Biographical information
Born	November 20, 1942
Occupation	Politician, attorney
Offices held	47th president of the United States; 47th vice president of the United States (and earlier roles in the U.S. Senate)
Political party	Democratic Party

Joseph R. Biden Jr., commonly known as Joe Biden, is an American politician and lawyer who served as the 46th president of the United States from 2021 to 2025. He previously served as the 47th vice president under President Barack Obama and represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate. Biden’s career has included legislation and policy leadership spanning civil rights, foreign affairs, and economic regulation.

Early life and education

Biden was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and later grew up in Claymont, Delaware. He studied at Delaware State University for a period before transferring to Syracuse University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. He then attended Harvard Law School, receiving a law degree.

Entry into public service and U.S. Senate career

Biden began his national political career in the Senate after being elected to represent Delaware. During his years in Congress, he became known for his committee work and for shaping policy on issues such as criminal justice, bankruptcy law, and foreign relations. He served on major Senate committees, including those focused on foreign policy and judicial matters, and he developed a public profile through legislation and oversight.

Vice presidency and role in the Obama administration

In 2008, Biden was selected as the running mate for Obama, forming the Democratic ticket that won the presidential election. As vice president, he coordinated with the administration on domestic and international priorities and represented U.S. interests abroad. His tenure included involvement in efforts tied to Afghanistan, economic recovery after the Great Recession, and high-level diplomacy.

2020 presidential campaign and presidency

Biden won the 2020 presidential election, defeating incumbent President Donald Trump, and assumed office in January 2021. His presidency emphasized the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, economic stimulus, and expanded federal investments. Major legislative efforts under his administration included the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and measures intended to address infrastructure needs and climate-related goals.

On foreign policy, Biden’s administration continued to manage crises and alliances, including decisions related to U.S. troop posture in Afghanistan and coordination with allies on security matters. His presidency also featured court challenges, political polarization, and continued debate over immigration policy, voting rights, and federal regulatory authority.

Political legacy and public perception

Biden’s political legacy is often framed through the lens of governance outcomes, coalition-building, and the balance between executive action and legislative negotiation. Commentators have highlighted both his role in Democratic Party strategy and the ways his policies affected areas such as public health, industrial policy, and international relations. His public image, political messaging, and approach to leadership have remained topics of ongoing analysis in American politics.