Amid growing concerns about his age and debate abilities, President Joe Biden defends his lackluster performance at the first presidential debate, aiming to rally his base and reassure skeptics.
- Jun 29, 2024
AceShowbiz - President Joe Biden faced down his doubters at a forceful speech on Friday, saying, "I know I'm not a young man … I don't debate as well as I used to," but insisting he's still up to the job in the White House. Biden sought to reassure supporters just hours after his halting debate performance Thursday night, June 27 as panicked Democrat discussions began to potentially replace him as the party leader and presidential candidate.
"I don't speak as smoothly as I used to," he said to cheers from the crowd in a Raleigh, N.C., hanger. "But I know what I do know. I know how to tell the truth. I know right from wrong. And I know how to do this job. I know how to get things done." He added, "When you get knocked down you get back up! … I know in my heart that I wouldn't be running if I didn't think I can do this job."
Biden appeared markedly more energetic the following day after his stumbling debate performance against Donald Trump as he attempts to dispel widespread panic among Democrats about his ability to lead the party and make it through the election.
Biden, 80, blamed a scratchy throat during the debate that made him inarticulate and often inaudible, attributed by aides to a cold. His answers trailed off at times, and his odd mouth-open expressions made the case that he was too old for the job.
Among Biden's notable supporters, former President Barack Obama voiced his backing, writing on X on Friday, "Bad debate nights happen. Trust me, I know. But this election is still a choice between someone who has fought for ordinary folks his entire life and someone who only cares about himself."
Obama added, "Between someone who tells the truth; who knows right from wrong and will give it to the American people straight - and someone who lies through his teeth for his own benefit. Last night didn't change that, and it's why so much is at stake in November."
Meanwhile, President Biden's campaign continues to project confidence, despite internal fractures and calls from some quarters for him to step aside. A Biden adviser told CNN, "There's no basis for that," dismissing the notion of Biden exiting the race.
However, the debate performance, filled with a raspy voice and moments of lost train of thought, highlights the political risks of nominating the oldest-ever president for a second term.
Despite anxiety from some donors, campaign sources highlighted a record $14 million 24-hour fundraising haul on Thursday, suggesting some resilience. With unwavering support from his inner circle, Joe Biden remains determined but faces a challenging road ahead as he seeks to reassure both the public and his party of his capability to clinch a second term.
