Obama backs Biden ahead US election

…acknowledges poor debate performance

By Innocent Raphael

Former President Barack Obama has expressed strong support for President Joe Biden following the latter’s faltering performance in Thursday’s presidential debate.

Biden, facing off against his predecessor Donald Trump, struggled with occasional stammering and a slurred, throaty delivery. His responses were widely viewed as lackluster by analysts.

Biden’s perceived vulnerabilities, including his shaky voice, have caused concern among Democrats about his viability as a candidate. Analysts warned that these weaknesses might jeopardize the party’s chances in the upcoming election if Biden remains the nominee.

In a post on X Friday night, Obama rallied behind Biden, acknowledging that poor debate performances can happen. Obama, under whom Biden served as vice president from 2009 to 2017, emphasized the stakes of the election.

“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.

“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,” Obama wrote.

Earlier, Biden defended his capability to serve during a rally, addressing concerns about his alertness and physical condition.

“I don’t walk as easily as I used to, I don’t speak as smoothly as I used to, and I don’t debate as well as I used to, but I know what I do know is how to tell the truth,” the 81-year-old said to a cheering crowd, which responded with chants of “Four more years,” he added.