President Joe Biden will arrive in Charleston today to pay tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and recognize his long relationship with South Carolina, a state that catapulted him to the 2020 Democratic nomination with the endorsement of Congressman Jim Clyburn.
White House officials now confirm the president will worship at Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston and deliver remarks on Dr. King's legacy, the day before the federal holiday honoring the civil rights leader.
Then, he’ll visit the International African American Museum at Gadsden’s wharf in Charleston, the site where some 200,000 thousand Africans were brought ashore and sold into slavery.

The Charleston visit marks Biden’s last official day in office before he attends the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump Monday.
South Carolina Public Radio/SCETV’s Gavin Jackson and Victoria Hansen are closely following the president's visit as part of a traveling press pool. They’ll bring you live updates right here, so check back throughout the day.
10:23 a.m. President Joe Biden arrives at Joint Base Charleston

The president and first lady Jill Biden deplane with Biden's son Hunter and grandson behind them. President Biden shakes hands with a number of dignitaries and hugs Congressman Jim Clyburn.
The weather is chilly, and skies are gray, but the rain has let up for the president's arrival. The motorcade gets rolling by 10:30 headed to the next stop, Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston.
10:41 a.m. Biden arrives at Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston
President Biden's motorcade arrives at the church. He could not be seen entering the sanctuary, but Hunter Biden and his family are visible as they make their way inside, along with Congressman Jim Clyburn. Plenty of security surrounds the area as people hold up signs reading, "Thank You Mr. President" and "Thank U Joe!"
10:53 a.m. The president addresses the press

In an upstairs room of the church, Biden meets with reporters about the release of hostages by Hamas. He says the first phase of the deal includes two Americans who've been held captive.
"The road to this deal has not been easy at all, and a long road."
He adds the success of the ceasefire will depend on the next administration as well.
11:06 a.m. President Biden joins congregants for worship

President Biden takes a seat in the front pew of the historically Black church, next to his wife and Congressman Jim Clyburn. North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess sits behind them.
The service focuses primarily on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a sermon about struggle and the faith to overcome.
12:31 a.m. President Biden speaks before the congregation

The president carries a black folder to the pulpit and opens it before he speaks. He says the word hope comes to mind every time he visits a Black church. He also thanks Congressman Clyburn for the 2020 endorsement that brought him here.
At times, the packed church of both Black and white worshippers erupts in cheers.
Before he leaves, Biden tells the crowd he's not going anywhere.
"It's been the honor of my life to serve as your president."
1:11 p.m. the president's motorcade arrives at the International African American Museum

Guided by museum CEO Dr. Tonya Matthews, President Biden tours a Gullah Geechee exhibit at the International African American Museum as former, longtime Mayor Joe Riley and his wife (far left) look on.
Riley, a native of Charleston, aspired to build the museum more than 20 year to teach what he says he was never taught; the truth about African American history and the people who persevered despite slavery. The museum opened in June of 2023.
Joe Biden remarks to Dr. Matthews, "You should have a statue of Joe in here."
4:06 p.m. President Biden speaks before a diverse crowd at the museum

Congressman Jim Clyburn introduces the president, giving him a Carolina maple wood and handwoven sweet grass basket.
Both Clyburn and the president speak about the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while many in the crowd wipe away tears.
Biden talks about equality and the strides that African Americans have made in this nation. He also speaks of his love for this state.
"Thank you for carrying us forward with kindness," he says. "With our whole hearts, we love you South Carolina."
The crowd is enthusiastic, despite a brisk, chilly wind whipping through the event.
4:56 p.m. The president and first lady board Air Force One at Joint Base Charleston

The sun is out, streaking the sky with a golden light as Air Force One gears up to take President Joe Biden home on this, the final full day of his presidency.