Biden mocks Trump at campaign stop on day after debate performance that left Democrats panicking: Live updates

President Joe Biden gave a fiery speech to a campaign rally in North Carolina on Friday, a day after he struggled badly in the first television debate of the 2024 presidential election cycle against Donald Trump, as Democrats looked on in horror.

Referring to Trump as a “one-man crime wave” the president acknowledged his age and limitations but said the stakes were too high and promised he could do the job. He also received the backing of former presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama in social media posts.

Biden and first lady Jill Biden later flew to New York to speak at the opening of the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center alongside Elton John.

During the CNN showdown in Atlanta, Biden appeared frail and raspy, with the White House later saying he had a cold. Amid gaffes and misstatements, the president later rallied to rebuke Trump over his sordid personal history and record in office.

Trump repeated lies and falsehoods throughout, often failing to answer questions. He was pressed three times on whether he would accept November’s results.

Pundits discussed the possibility of Biden stepping down as the Democratic candidate. Lobbying for Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, or Gretchen Whitmer to take over has reportedly begun.

Democrats are now openly urging President Joe Biden to skip the next debate set to take place in September.

Biden’s performance on Thursday night was quickly slammed as disastrous as he appeared frail, at times losing his train of thought and making several gaffes.

Democrats began to share their concerns while the debate was still live and questioned whether Biden should remain on the ballot. Several said anonymously that he should step aside.

Gustaf Kilander reports.

Elected Democrats urge