Past presidents like Donald Trump, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush often reacted to crises without a clear long-term vision, frequently altering their worldviews to match the moment. Biden, however, has operated with a well-defined worldview, prioritizing democracy as a doctrine and consistently working to promote these essential values.
Biden’s latest challenge is in Israel and Gaza, where he has firmly supported Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East and North Africa, in the face of a terrorist attack. Unlike George W. Bush, Biden has demonstrated how diplomacy and force can support democracy. The U.S. played a crucial role in securing the release of many Israeli hostages while also deploying military assets to safeguard American interests and demonstrate the ability of a democratic power to constrain fundamentalist forces.
Biden has received little credit for preventing a direct U.S.-Russia confrontation by carefully managing military aid to Ukraine and restraining its efforts to join NATO. This support has been crucial to Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression and its efforts to maintain its democratic orientation.
Additionally, Biden’s administration has supported Taiwan in its fight to retain its democratic independence amid growing pressure from China. Despite Beijing’s efforts to absorb Taiwan, the island is planning a democratic presidential election, highlighting its determination to preserve its democratic values.
Biden’s consistent commitment to democracy sets him apart, and history should recognize his contributions to defending democratic principles in the face of complex global challenges.