(AURN News) — President Joe Biden offered a spirited defense of his economic policies during a speech Tuesday at the Brookings Institution, framing his administration's work as a departure from "trickle-down economics" while acknowledging ongoing challenges for working families.

"After decades of trickle-down economics that primarily benefited those at the very top, we've written a new book that's growing the economy the middle out and the bottom up, that benefits thus far everyone,” Biden said.

Speaking about the incoming Trump administration, Biden maintained that his successor would inherit a strengthened economy. He highlighted his administration's efforts on inflation, noting bipartisan cooperation in bringing it "down to pre-pandemic levels."

However, Biden did acknowledge persistent economic challenges. "Wages have increased, but still too many working middle-class families struggle with high prices for housing and groceries and the daily needs of life," he said.

The speech comes as Biden prepares to hand over the presidency to President-elect Donald Trump in just 40 days.

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