**Biden's Presidency: A Legacy Hindered by Missed Opportunities and Unforeseen Challenges**

As Joe Biden prepares to exit the White House, his presidency is evaluated in light of both proud accomplishments and missed opportunities. Standing at the National Cathedral during a eulogy for former President Jimmy Carter, Biden found himself grappling with the reflections of his own presidency’s shortcomings. With just a 39% approval rating, much lower than his initial 57%, Biden's administration faced domestic challenges such as rising inflation, the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, and a lackluster response to post-Covid crises. While he navigated significant legislative victories like the American Rescue Plan and infrastructure investments, critics argue that his legacy will ultimately be viewed as a bridge between two Trump presidencies, clouded by his struggles to connect with the American public and a lack of timely economic relief for everyday citizens.

Biden articulated his hope for how history would view his endeavors, wishing to be remembered for restoring the economy and restoring America's standing in the world. However, the reality has been marred by economic pessimism among voters and a series of predictable crises that his administration struggled to address. The combination of external events, internal frustrations, and an increasingly insular circle around him stifled effective governance, leaving Biden’s administration to confront the dual challenges of a legacy shaped by the lingering shadow of Trump and his own advancing age—which may have cemented his fate as a one-term president. As Trump prepares to resume office, Biden’s legacy will hinge on the efficacy of his policies and the administration’s ability to address the problems that plagued his presidency from the start.

Despite his intentions and prior successes, the question remains: how will Biden's presidency be judged, and what will it mean for the future of Democratic politics in America?