US President Joe Biden has responded defiantly to criticism over his age, declaring to supporters in a passionate speech that he will secure re-election in November despite concerns sparked by a lackluster debate performance.
Biden, acknowledging he is not a young man, made these remarks at a rally in the battleground state of North Carolina on Friday, one day after facing difficulties in a televised showdown with Republican rival Donald Trump.
While questions about Biden’s age are not new, his shaky performance on the debate stage marked by verbal blanks, a hoarse voice, and challenging answers caused alarm among some Democrats, who raised fresh doubts about his candidacy.
Despite this, Biden’s campaign remains steadfast in asserting that the country’s oldest presidential candidate is still capable of serving another term.
Campaign officials have dismissed any notion of Biden stepping aside for another nominee, emphasizing his resilience and determination.
Although several campaign surrogates, including Vice President Kamala Harris, acknowledged Biden’s debate stumble in interviews, they reaffirmed their support for him, highlighting that his responses were more substantive compared to Trump’s.
