On September 19, 1796, President Washington published his Farewell Address, announcing his intention to retire at the end of his second term. Washington’s decision to step away from power (for the second time) was a radical act. He perfectly orchestrated his departure from the public stage, but then almost undermined everything he had worked so carefully to construct.
The Farewell Address is remembered both for what it symbolizes about our system of government—Washington relinquishing power when he could have easily remained in office for life, and when even his political opponents hoped he would serve a third term—and for its prescience: Its warnings have proved relevant and modern, generation after generation.
The Farewell Address offered three important messages. First, Washington set out a template for international affairs. He believed in trade and a robust American presence on the world stage. He wanted Americans to travel, engage with foreign nations, and exchange ideas and goods. He warned against sending American sailors and soldiers to fight in wars with no implications for American security. But he had no objections to Americans selling or giving goods to allies, nor did he shy away from defending the nation when needed. The Farewell Address is not an isolationist message.
Second, Washington warned against allowing our internal differences to come between us. We might debate religion, education, economic policy, and foreign policy, but we still have more in common as Americans than our differences in opinion. Washington saw partisan identities and clashing loyalties to foreign nations driving Americans apart. He urged his fellow citizens to cherish their American identity above a partisan or diplomatic identity.
Finally, Washington reminded the states that they were stronger as one nation than as separate entities. He spoke to the economic, political, and security benefits provided by union, and warned about the perils of separation.
Since 1796, few presidents have delivered farewell addresses—even fewer were memorable. One notable example came in January 1961, when the departing Dwight D. Eisenhower warned about the strength and influence of the military-industrial complex.
Joe Biden has a rare opportunity to speak to the future without the typical burdens of electoral politics. As his five-decade-long career in public service comes to a close, his Democratic National Convention speech will likely be the last time he will speak to a giant audience. He has ascended above the partisan fray by removing himself from the 2024 race. Biden’s rising approval numbers reveal the shifting public perception about him and his decision not to run again.