Former President Joe Biden announced Wednesday that he has authored a presidential memoir titled "Promise Me, America," which is scheduled for release on November 17. The announcement was made via a video message.
The book's release date is set for two weeks after the November midterm elections. Biden stated that the memoir will delve into key decisions made during his presidency. Topics addressed include the administration's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, economic policies, efforts to "restore our democracy" following the January 6th events, and the conflicts in Afghanistan and Ukraine.
"Promise Me, America" will also explore Biden's rationale for seeking re-election and his ultimate decision to step aside from the presidential race. "Most of all, it's about my faith in the promise of America," Biden said in his announcement. "The promise we made to those that have come before us and to honor their sacrifice."
![This book cover image released by Little, Brown and Co. shows "Promise Me, America" by Joe Biden.]( "This book cover image released by Little, Brown and Co. shows "Promise Me, America" by Joe Biden.")
The timing of the book's release could potentially shift attention back to the former president, potentially drawing focus away from Democratic efforts to emphasize President Donald Trump's record during the midterm campaign period.
Biden has been spending time with his family since leaving office. He also recently received treatment for prostate cancer, which he described as going "really well."
In the summer of 2024, Biden withdrew from the presidential race following a widely criticized debate performance that raised concerns about his mental fitness. Former Vice President Kamala Harris commented on Biden's decision, calling it "recklessness" that he was allowed to make the decision about running for re-election alone. Former first lady Jill Biden, in her memoir "View from the East Wing," expressed concern that her husband might have been drugged prior to his debate appearance.
This is not Biden's first published work. His previous books include "Promises to Keep" and "Promise Me, Dad," a memoir dedicated to his late son, Beau, who died of brain cancer.