If you enjoyed the opening night of the Democratic National Convention, you can credit Joe Biden.

If you find pleasure in Donald Trump’s struggling reelection efforts, again, thank Joe Biden.

And if you’re thrilled by the Democrats’ uplifting message and fresh energy, you can guess who’s behind it.

None of this would be occurring in the presidential race without Biden’s decision to step back and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris’s rise to the forefront of the Democratic ticket.

The Change in the Presidential Race Began with Joe Biden

Harris and her team have effectively kicked off her presidential campaign, shifting poll dynamics in her favor. Meanwhile, Trump and the Republican Party have struggled to respond. But all this stemmed from what could be considered one of the most unselfish decisions in recent American political history.

This decision was celebrated loudly on Monday night at the United Center in Chicago, where a crowd warmly applauded Biden’s years of dedication to public service.

Harris unexpectedly appeared early in the evening, stating: “I want to start by honoring our remarkable president, Joe Biden.  Thank you for your historic leadership, your lifelong service to our country, and for everything you will continue to do. We are eternally grateful.”

‘Thank you, Joe!’ Reverberated Throughout the DNC Arena

Later on, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton remarked: “Let’s honor President Biden. He has been a champion for democracy both domestically and internationally. He restored dignity, decency, and competence to the White House, demonstrating what true patriotism means. Thank you, Joe Biden, for your lifetime of service and leadership.”

The crowd erupted into chants of “Thank you, Joe!”

Critics of Biden will likely dismiss the Biden Appreciation Night, claiming he had no choice but to exit. Trump will call it unjust, persisting in his bizarre and completely inaccurate assertion that it was “a coup.”

That’s perfectly fine, but their opinions are irrelevant. Monday evening wasn’t meant for them.

Moreover, I won’t insist that Biden decided to step aside quickly and gracefully when he realized the Democratic base was disillusioned with his reelection prospects. It took a poor debate performance that, fairly or not, highlighted his age and diminished his chances. It involved external pressure from congressional Democrats, pundits, and even celebrities.

A Rare Decision to Give Up Power: Biden Deserves Recognition

However, how it all unfolded is less significant than the outcome itself.

A man in the highest office recognized the situation, understood the implications, and chose to step back for the welfare of his party and, arguably, the country.

This kind of decision is rare. Few leaders willingly relinquish power, as Trump has demonstrated since he lost the 2020 election.

But Biden did, initiating a remarkable shift in the presidential race for 2024.

Had Biden Stayed, the DNC Would Have Been a Different Story

Imagining the DNC without Biden stepping aside is challenging. The atmosphere following the debate was grim. Efforts to counter what many perceived as Biden’s age-related weaknesses would have dominated this week, leaving Democrats treading carefully.

Instead, one decision brought a renewed sense of energy to Monday’s event, fostering an uplifting and optimistic atmosphere.

As Biden approached the podium to officially hand over the reins, the audience erupted in cheers, holding up signs that read “We Love Joe” and applauding enthusiastically.

In an attempt to calm the excitement, the seasoned politician, who bravely decided to step back from power, declared, “America, I love you!”

I genuinely believe that sentiment.

Stay updated with YSL News columnist Rex Huppke on X (formerly Twitter) at @RexHuppke and on Facebook at facebook.com/RexIsAJerk