Biden passes torch to Kamala Harris in emotional farewell speech

Chicago, August 20

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President Joe Biden cemented the Democratic Party’s elevation of Kamala Harris to lead the fight for the White House against Republican Donald Trump with a convention speech on Monday that praised his vice president as the best hope for preserving American democracy.

Biden took centre stage on opening night of the Democratic National Convention, drawing an extended standing ovation from the party faithful and delivering a farewell speech to the party he has served for half a century - even with five months left in office.

Wiping away tears after being introduced by his daughter Ashley, Biden waved to the crowd that held signs saying, “We (heart) Biden.” Beaming, he responded, “I love YOU.” “Are you ready to vote for freedom? Are you ready to vote for democracy and for America? Let me ask you, are you ready to elect Kamala Harris and Tim Walz?” Biden said.

Taking multiple swipes at Trump, Biden promised to be the “best volunteer” Harris and Minnesota Governor Walz, her vice presidential running mate, had ever seen.

Biden dropped his reelection bid after his disastrous debate performance against Trump on June 27.

Earlier in the evening, Harris, 59, made a surprise appearance, drawing cheers from the crowd as she vowed to defeat Trump.

“Let us fight for the ideals we hold dear and let us always remember, when we fight we win!” Harris said to the roar of the crowd. She will formally accept the nomination on Thursday.