Did Biden Actually Accomplish Anything During His Presidency?

Details: By Robert Jennings, InnerSelf.com

Did Biden Actually Accomplish Anything During His Presidency?

by Robert Jennings, InnerSelf.com

The Biden administration has indeed overseen a period of notable economic and social progress, as indicated by several key indicators, despite the narrative pushed by certain segments of the media that misinform the public about the reality of these achievements.

Misformation has often clouded public perception despite significant achievements in economic recovery, public safety, and energy independence. Certain media segments amplify false narratives that obscure the administration’s accomplishments and prevent a full understanding of their impact on American lives.

Here's a closer look at the key points of progress and their implications for the nation's trajectory:

Ending Foreign Wars

One of the hallmarks of President Biden's tenure has been the absence of U.S. troops engaged in large-scale foreign wars, a significant shift from nearly two decades of continuous conflict. The most consequential move in this regard was the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan, bringing an end to America’s longest war.

While the extraction faced sharp criticism for its chaotic execution, it is important to recognize that no military withdrawal from such a protracted and complex engagement is without its challenges. The abrupt collapse of Afghan military resistance and the swift takeover by the Taliban further complicated the situation, factors that were not entirely within the administration's control.

The withdrawal faced sharp criticism, but it is critical to recognize that extractions from prolonged occupations are inherently complex. The evacuation of over 120,000 people marked a historic effort, demonstrating the capability and dedication of the U.S. military. The broader focus must remain on the lessons learned from the near 20-year war, ensuring that future conflicts are approached with clear objectives and strategies.

Beyond Afghanistan, the administration has prioritized diplomacy, strategic alliances, and indirect support for allies to address global challenges. The U.S. response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine exemplifies this approach, providing critical military and humanitarian assistance while avoiding direct military engagement. This strategy has not only strengthened NATO but also demonstrated the effectiveness of multilateral support in defending democratic values.

This pivot away from direct military entanglements reflects a growing public consensus that America’s resources are better spent addressing domestic challenges and global issues through non-military means. While the withdrawal from Afghanistan will remain a contentious chapter, it also marks a turning point in U.S. foreign policy—a move toward reducing the nation’s reliance on military intervention as the primary tool for resolving international conflicts.

Plummeting Murders and Drug Overdose Deaths

While crime rates have been a persistent concern for Americans, the recent decline in murders marks a broader stabilization in public safety. Likewise, the sharp drop in drug overdose deaths reflects the success of targeted policies that address the root causes of addiction and prioritize prevention, treatment, and education. These improvements represent significant strides toward a safer and healthier society, especially in communities long plagued by economic and social stress.

Economic struggles in lower-income areas often fuel cycles of violence and substance abuse, as financial instability exacerbates social tensions. Policies that prioritize community investment, job creation, and mental health resources are essential to breaking these cycles and building safer, healthier communities.

Economic stress brought on by job losses and wage stagnation often correlates with spikes in violent crime and drug abuse. Areas hardest hit by the Great Recession saw industries shutter, leaving behind economic voids that were filled by illicit activities, including drug trafficking and organized crime. Many turned to opioids and other substances as a means of coping, which led to the public health crisis now known as the opioid epidemic. The fallout from these policies created long-term damage, particularly in lower-income regions, where economic opportunities remained scarce even as the broader economy recovered.

Under the Biden administration, focused efforts to address these challenges have yielded measurable results. Initiatives such as expanded healthcare access, increased funding for mental health services, and partnerships to combat the illicit drug trade have begun to reverse these devastating trends. Programs aimed at creating good-paying jobs in underserved areas have helped to ease the economic pressures that fuel crime and addiction. Additionally, education campaigns and easier access to life-saving treatments, such as naloxone, have played a critical role in reducing overdose deaths.

These improvements highlight the importance of policies that address the economic and social determinants of crime and addiction. Reducing murder rates and drug overdoses isn’t just about law enforcement; it’s about creating opportunities and ensuring that communities are supported through robust social and economic policies. The lessons of the past underscore that neglecting the economic health of the most vulnerable inevitably leads to societal strain. By investing in solutions that tackle these root causes, the Biden administration has laid the groundwork for a more equitable and stable future.

Immigration and Border Management

Undocumented immigration levels are now below those seen when former President Trump left office, reflecting the Biden administration's nuanced approach to managing the border and addressing the complex drivers of migration. This progress has been achieved through modernized border enforcement, humane immigration policies, and initiatives aimed at tackling the root causes of migration in countries of origin, such as poverty, violence, and political instability. The administration’s strategy seeks to balance enforcement and compassion, emphasizing that border management requires security measures and long-term solutions to systemic issues.

However, much of the difficulty in managing border issues stems from the proliferation of misinformation and politically motivated narratives. Constant announcements and false allegations from certain political factions that the U.S. border is "wide open" have exacerbated the problem. These misleading claims are amplified in the media and exploited by those seeking to profit from human smuggling operations. Individuals and families in Central America, South America, and elsewhere, misled by these false narratives, often undertake dangerous journeys believing they will easily be allowed entry into the United States.

Misinformation about a "wide-open" border has fueled dangerous journeys and overwhelmed resources. By addressing the root causes of migration and combating human smuggling networks, the Biden administration sought to balance security and humanity, fostering a more effective immigration system.

In reality, the Biden administration has implemented practical measures to improve border security while ensuring humane treatment for migrants. These include enhanced use of technology at the border, increased personnel for processing asylum claims, and strengthened cooperation with neighboring countries to intercept illegal crossings and disrupt smuggling networks. At the same time, the administration has focused on expanding legal pathways to migration and addressing conditions in migrants' home countries to reduce the need for perilous journeys to the U.S. border.

By framing the immigration debate around fear and division, those spreading falsehoods about a "wide-open" border hinder constructive solutions and increase the burden on border communities and law enforcement. Addressing migration challenges requires honesty and collaboration, not sensationalism and scapegoating. Though far from perfect, the Biden administration’s efforts represent a good-faith attempt to replace the chaos and cruelty of previous policies with a balanced, forward-looking approach. As misinformation continues to fuel unnecessary strain, countering false narratives with facts and compassion remains critical, paving the way for a fair and effective immigration system.

Economic Strength and Manufacturing Revival

The economic rebound under President Biden has been nothing short of remarkable. Since 2020, more than 16 million jobs have been created, including over 700,000 in manufacturing. This impressive recovery reflects a deliberate effort to revitalize American industry, strengthen the labor market, and build a more resilient economy. Through major legislative achievements and a focus on forward-looking investments, the Biden administration has driven job growth and wage increases, providing tangible benefits to workers nationwide.

A key pillar of this resurgence has been transformative legislation. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has allocated over $1 trillion to modernize the nation’s infrastructure, creating jobs in the transportation, energy, and broadband sectors. The Inflation Reduction Act has spurred investments in green energy, bolstering the renewable energy sector while laying the groundwork for long-term industrial growth. Additionally, the CHIPS and Science Act has committed tens of billions of dollars to domestic semiconductor manufacturing, reducing reliance on foreign supply chains and reinvigorating high-tech manufacturing in the U.S. These laws have collectively addressed long-standing economic vulnerabilities, ensuring that America remains competitive in an increasingly globalized world.

The contrast is stark when comparing the Biden administration's performance with previous administrations. During the George W. Bush presidency, job creation averaged a modest 62,000 per month, with significant losses toward the end of his tenure due to the 2008 financial crisis. Wage growth was sluggish, and inequality widened as policies favored tax cuts for the wealthy over investments in the middle class. Under President Trump, while job growth averaged 182,000 per month pre-pandemic, the administration struggled to maintain momentum, and the abrupt economic fallout of COVID-19 wiped out millions of jobs. Trump's signature tax cuts disproportionately benefited corporations and the wealthy, with limited impact on sustained wage growth for ordinary workers.

By contrast, President Obama inherited an economy in freefall during the Great Recession and presided over creating approximately 12 million jobs over eight years, primarily driven by his stimulus efforts and measures to stabilize key industries. However, job growth was slower to reach pre-recession levels due to the severity of the crisis. During Obama's tenure, wage growth was positive but moderate as structural challenges like income inequality persisted.

The Biden administration has outpaced all three regarding post-recession job recovery and wage growth. Real wages—adjusted for inflation—are now rising at a rate not seen in years, reflecting a tighter labor market that has strengthened workers' bargaining power. Unlike prior recoveries, this growth has been underpinned by deliberate efforts to invest in domestic manufacturing, infrastructure, and clean energy, ensuring a more equitable and sustainable economic expansion.

The reshoring of supply chains has revitalized industries like steel, automotive, and semiconductors, creating jobs and strengthening economic security. These investments ensure resilience while positioning the U.S. as a leader in emerging global industries.

The Biden administration's economic policies are a testament to the power of proactive, worker-centered governance. By prioritizing investments that benefit the majority rather than the elite, the administration has delivered an economic rebound that surpasses recent presidencies and promises long-term benefits for American workers and industries.

Stock Market Resilience and Wage Growth

The stock market’s performance during President Biden’s administration has been near unparalleled. Over the past two years, stocks have delivered their best returns since the late 1990s, a period often associated with the dot-com boom. This remarkable growth signals robust investor confidence in the strength of the economy and the effectiveness of policies designed to stabilize and expand key industries. The rise has been driven by a combination of factors, including record corporate profits, significant public and private investments in infrastructure and technology, and a steady post-pandemic economic recovery.

This market rally has significantly increased the wealth of millions of Americans who invest in retirement accounts, mutual funds, and individual stocks. However, the unprecedented nature of this rise also introduces significant risks. The market’s current position stands at a critical juncture, where a potential shift in economic policy under a future administration could lead to an equally unparalleled decline. Should policies emerge that stifle growth, destabilize financial markets, or erode investor confidence—such as dramatic cuts to government investment, rollback of regulations that ensure market stability, or policies that disproportionately benefit the wealthy without addressing broader economic needs—the market could face a severe correction. Such a downturn could wipe out immense wealth, mainly for middle-class families whose retirement savings are tied to market performance.

At the same time, wage growth has been a cornerstone of this period of economic resilience. After years of stagnation, real wages—adjusted for inflation—finally rise, providing tangible benefits to American workers. This trend has been reinforced by historically low unemployment rates, which have strengthened worker bargaining power. Policies such as the expanded Child Tax Credit, investments in job training, and the administration’s focus on creating high-quality jobs in industries like green energy and manufacturing have all contributed to a more prosperous middle class.

What sets this era apart is the alignment of rising wages with stock market growth. Historically, periods of significant stock market gains have often coincided with growing income inequality, as corporate profits outpaced worker compensation. Under the Biden administration, the deliberate focus on middle-class prosperity has ensured that workers share the benefits of economic expansion, creating a more balanced and sustainable recovery.

The stock market’s record-breaking performance is both a sign of economic strength and a cautionary tale. While the current administration’s policies have bolstered investor confidence and worker prosperity, the fragility of this balance cannot be overstated. A shift to policies that neglect economic fundamentals or prioritize short-term gains for the wealthy at the expense of long-term stability could have catastrophic consequences for investors and the entire economy. It is a reminder that governance and policy decisions play a critical role in shaping the financial and economic future of the nation.

Energy Production and Inflation

The Biden administration has overseen a historic surge in energy production, achieving levels that have significantly bolstered domestic energy security. This increase in production has stabilized U.S. energy markets and contributed to more excellent stability in global markets. By ensuring a steady supply of energy, the administration has shielded American consumers and businesses from the worst of global disruptions, including those caused by geopolitical conflicts like Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. These efforts have helped mitigate energy-driven inflation and laid the groundwork for long-term economic stability.

Notably, the administration has pursued a dual strategy of expanding traditional oil and gas production while investing heavily in renewable energy. By maintaining strong domestic oil production, the U.S. has reduced its dependence on foreign oil, limiting the influence of adversarial actors such as Russia and Middle Eastern dictatorships. This approach has allowed America to avoid the severe energy shortages and price shocks plaguing other countries during global turbulence.

At the same time, the Biden administration has made significant strides in setting the nation on a path toward energy independence through renewable power. Primary legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act has directed unprecedented investments into clean energy technologies, including wind, solar, and battery storage. These initiatives aim to decouple the U.S. economy from the whims and abuses of the global oil market, reducing vulnerability to price manipulation and supply disruptions orchestrated by authoritarian regimes. By prioritizing renewable energy development, the administration fosters a more resilient and self-sufficient energy system that benefits both businesses and consumers in the long term.

These policies also serve a dual purpose in addressing inflation. The surge in renewable energy investments stabilizes energy prices and contributes to broader economic growth by creating jobs in green industries. These jobs, many high-paying and localized, inject new life into communities across the country while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, further enhancing economic and environmental sustainability.

Inflation, a significant challenge in the wake of the pandemic, has been reduced to near-normal levels under Biden’s watch. Energy prices, a major driver of inflation, have been controlled thanks to increased domestic production and strategic use of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve during times of volatility. This strategic management has helped temper the effects of external shocks and ensured that inflationary pressures do not spiral out of control.

The Biden administration’s energy strategy is a forward-thinking blend of immediate action and long-term vision. By expanding domestic oil production while investing in renewable energy, the administration has addressed present energy needs and charted a course for a future where the U.S. is no longer beholden to the global oil market's unpredictable and often exploitative dynamics. This comprehensive approach strengthens the nation’s economy, enhances its geopolitical standing, and ensures that the benefits of growth are shared broadly across society.

A Warning for the Future

These achievements position the nation on a solid footing, leaving a legacy of economic resilience, declining inequality, and a shift toward sustainable development. Under the Biden administration, the United States has emerged from unprecedented crises stronger, more stable, and better prepared to address future challenges. Investments in infrastructure, energy independence, and middle-class prosperity have laid the foundation for long-term growth while positioning the U.S. as a leader in global economic and environmental transformation. However, sustaining these gains will require continued vigilance, bold leadership, and a commitment to bridging political divides and addressing structural inequities.

As the Biden administration prepares to hand over the reins of power, the looming specter of Project 2025, a policy agenda the incoming administration promotes, threatens to unravel much of this progress. Project 2025, with its sweeping proposals to deregulate industries, reverse investments in renewable energy, and undermine federal institutions, risks plunging both the U.S. and the global economy into chaos. By prioritizing short-term corporate profits and ideological goals over sustainable growth and stability, these policies could destabilize financial markets, increase inequality, and exacerbate the climate crisis, undoing the hard-won gains of recent years.

The rollback of climate initiatives and renewable energy investments under Project 2025 risks returning the nation to dependence on volatile global oil markets, empowering authoritarian regimes and undermining energy security. Such policies would undo critical progress and jeopardize long-term stability.

Additionally, proposed tax cuts that disproportionately benefit the wealthy threaten to deepen economic inequality and balloon the federal deficit, mirroring the fiscal missteps of previous Republican administrations. This "trickle-down" approach has consistently failed to deliver broad-based economic growth, instead funneling wealth to the top while leaving working families with stagnant wages and diminished public services. Such policies risk reigniting the economic pressures that contributed to the financial crises of 2008 and beyond.

On the global stage, Project 2025's inward-focused, isolationist posture could weaken international alliances and undermine America’s leadership. The potential abandonment of commitments to global climate initiatives and economic partnerships risks alienating allies and empowering rivals. A withdrawal from collaborative problem-solving would leave the world ill-prepared to address transnational challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic instability. The resulting void could create opportunities for authoritarian regimes to expand their influence, further destabilizing the global order.

The progress achieved under the Biden administration serves as a blueprint for what is possible when policies are guided by foresight, compassion, and a commitment to the common good. However, the gains of the past few years are not guaranteed to endure. The incoming administration’s policies represent a sharp departure from this trajectory, prioritizing deregulation, corporate profits, and partisan ideology over the stability and prosperity of the nation as a whole.

As Americans face this crossroads, it is imperative to remain vigilant. History's lessons remind us that progress can be fragile, and the consequences of poor governance can be swift and severe. The choices made in the coming years will determine whether the U.S. continues on a path of resilience and shared prosperity or reverts to cycles of economic chaos and inequality. The stakes could not be higher, and the responsibility to safeguard the nation’s future rests with all of us.

About the Author

Robert Jennings is the co-publisher of InnerSelf.com, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering a more connected, equitable world. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army, Robert draws on his diverse life experiences, from working in real estate and construction to building InnerSelf with his wife, Marie T. Russell, to bring a practical, grounded perspective to life’s challenges. Founded in 1996, InnerSelf.com shares insights to help people make informed, meaningful choices for themselves and the planet. More than 30 years later, InnerSelf continues to inspire clarity and empowerment.

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Article Recap

The Biden administration achievements, including historic job creation, economic progress, reduced inflation, and energy independence, reflect a transformative leadership approach. From managing the Afghanistan withdrawal to balancing traditional and renewable energy, Biden's policies reshaped America’s economy and strengthened its global standing. However, the legacy of progress faces risks from future policy shifts, underscoring the need for vigilance to sustain these achievements.

Robert Jennings