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The Presidential Finale: Five Wild Ideas for Biden’s Last Week in Office

humorous leaning article photo of a President Biden with ice cream sitting in an office with the Capitol in the background by Dr. Sam Goldstein

As President Biden's term nears its conclusion, one can't help but wonder how a leader might make their final days in office genuinely unforgettable. While most outgoing presidents focus on ensuring a smooth transition or cementing their legacy through reflective speeches, Biden has already made headlines with controversial pardons that have sparked heated debates nationwide. While a hallmark of presidential power, these high-profile decisions have divided the public. But what if Biden chose to captivate the nation with something bold, visionary, or downright entertaining instead of controversy?

Imagine a president spending his last week in office not mired in political drama but instead focusing on whimsical or daring initiatives that unite the country in surprise and delight. From reimagining the weekend to daring investments in futuristic technologies, here are five less controversial—yet far more exciting—things President Biden could do to end his presidency on a high note.

Declare "The Weekend" a Mandatory 3 Days

In his final address from the Oval Office, President Biden could announce an executive order requiring all employers to transition to a four-day workweek, with Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays officially designated as the weekend. Biden might frame this as a step toward a more equitable society, citing research linking shorter workweeks to increased productivity, better mental health, and reduced burnout.

The order could include tax incentives for companies that successfully implement the change to preempt business backlash. Biden might quip, "Folks, we've been working too hard for too long. It's time to take a load off. You deserve it." While some critics argue it's a ploy to distract from more pressing issues, Americans would likely flood social media with hashtags like #ThreeDayWeekendForever.

Extend the Retirement Age to 106

In a surprise televised address, Biden might humorously announce that Social Security will now only be available to those who reach the age of 106, jokingly referring to it as "proof that age is just a number." He could justify the change by citing advancements in healthcare and longevity, which, he argues, make traditional retirement ages outdated and a way to keep Social Security from going bankrupt.

While critics would surely lambast the idea as a dystopian nightmare, Biden might double down with a playful tone: "Hey, I'm still working in my 80s, at least I think I am, so why can't you?" The move would accompany a vague promise of enhanced workplace accommodations for seniors, such as mandatory nap pods and subsidized orthopedic chairs. This announcement might also prompt a satirical media frenzy, with headlines like "Working Till You Drop: The New American Dream."

Rename Washington, D.C., to "Biden City"

President Biden could temporarily rename Washington, D.C., to "Biden City" for a symbolic 24 hours. He might present this as a lighthearted acknowledgment of his tenure, positioning it as a one-day event to celebrate the progress achieved during his administration. Critics would likely decry the move as self-indulgent, but Biden could preemptively counter by stating it's "just a fun idea to mark the end of an era." As part of the gesture, he could unveil a commemorative plaque outside the White House reading, "For one day only: Welcome to Biden City."

Social media would explode with memes, while local businesses might capitalize on the moment with notable "Biden City" discounts and themed merchandise. Supporters might even propose extending the renaming for a week, making it a quirky end-of-term tradition for future presidents.

National Free Ice Cream Day

Channeling his well-known love for ice cream, Biden could sign a proclamation designating the last Friday of his presidency as "National Free Ice Cream Day." Partnering with major chains like Ben & Jerry's, Baskin-Robbins, and local ice cream parlors, the initiative would allow every American one free scoop to celebrate democracy and unity.

Biden might say in his announcement, "Folks, if there's one thing we can all agree on, it's ice cream. Let's end this journey with a sweet note—literally." The day could become an instant sensation, with families flocking to their favorite shops and social media flooded with photos of citizens enjoying their free treats. Supporters would hail it as a wholesome and memorable gesture, while critics might dismiss it as frivolous. Either way, it would leave a lasting (and delicious) impression on his legacy.

Mandate Teleportation Research by 2030

In an audacious farewell speech, President Biden could announce a federally funded initiative to develop teleportation technology by 2030, framing it as America's next "moonshot" project. He might call it the "Quantum Leap Act" and claim it's designed to revolutionize transportation, reduce carbon emissions, and inspire the next generation of innovators.

The act could include billions in funding for research universities, tech companies, and defense contractors to explore quantum physics and engineering breakthroughs. While skeptics would likely view the plan as overly ambitious, Biden could say, "They laughed at the idea of putting a man on the moon—now, we're going to move people faster than ever before."

The initiative would instantly capture the imagination of dreamers and futurists, sparking debates on feasibility and ethics. Meanwhile, comedians and commentators might have a field day with jokes about people accidentally teleporting into walls or losing their luggage in quantum space.

Now, Back to Reality

While these ideas might seem far-fetched, they capture what many hope for in a leader's final moments in office: boldness, creativity, and a willingness to leave a memorable mark. At a time when political decisions often feel heavy and divisive, these lighter, imaginative actions could serve as a refreshing reminder of the president's ability to bring people together—even if just for a moment of shared surprise or amusement. Whether by redefining the weekend, immortalizing his name for a day, or indulging the nation's collective sweet tooth, President Biden could show that leadership isn't only about policy and connecting with the people you serve.

These unexpected moves wouldn't just be a testament to his legacy; they'd offer a joyful pause for a country often consumed by polarization and conflict. As the presidency transitions to a new chapter, Biden's final gestures, however whimsical, could spark conversation and hope about the possibilities of leadership infused with a sense of humor and humanity. In the end, moments like these remind us that politics can be a source of change and inspiration—and sometimes, just a bit of fun.

A Year-End Wish

As we bid farewell to this presidency and prepare for the year ahead, let us take a moment to wish for peace, unity, and a return to sanity in these chaotic times. There is a shared hope that the coming year will bring a renewed commitment to understanding, compassion, and progress regardless of political affiliations or differing perspectives. Let's find ways to bridge divides, celebrate what unites us, and work together to create a future where humor, humanity, and harmony can thrive. Here's to a new year filled with hope, laughter, and the resilience to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead. ◆