President Joe Biden turned his disappointing debate performance into a rallying cry at an event on Friday, presenting himself as resilient despite whispers within his party about replacing him.
“I know I’m not a young man. I don’t walk or speak as smoothly as I used to. I don’t debate as well as I used to, but I know how to tell the truth!” Biden declared energetically, acknowledging Thursday night’s debate criticism while contrasting it with former President Donald Trump’s controversial statements.
“When you get knocked down, you get back up,” Biden shouted, energizing the crowd. “I intend to win this state in November,” Biden said about North Carolina. “We win here, we win the election.”
The event, in a state that last voted Democrat in 2008, followed what many saw as a weak debate performance by Biden against Trump.
Folks, I might not walk as easily or talk as smoothly as I used to.
I might not debate as well as I used to.
But what I do know is how to tell the truth.pic.twitter.com/ep5D0EhT5P
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) June 28, 2024
Critics noted Biden’s low energy and hoarse voice during the debate, causing concern among some Democrats that a week of prep at Camp David led to a lackluster showing.
Reflecting on the debate, Biden said, “I spent 90 minutes on stage with a man who has the morals of an alley cat.” Despite occasional coughing during Friday’s speech, Biden was more lively, delivering strong attack lines and rallying the crowd.
Referencing Trump’s 34 felony convictions, sexual assault on E. Jean Carroll, and fines for business fraud, Biden remarked, “Donald Trump isn’t just a convicted felon — Donald Trump is a one-man crime wave.”
A senior Biden adviser stated the campaign team worked closely with the president Friday morning to craft his closing remarks in Raleigh about the debate. This was not a reaction to negative coverage or calls within the party for him to step aside, the adviser said, but a direct address to the previous night’s performance.
First lady Jill Biden, in a black dress with “vote” written in white letters, praised her husband’s strength and leadership, noting his unshakable optimism and hope despite unimaginable tragedies.
“We can choose who leads us through this chapter of history,” she continued. “What you saw last night was Joe Biden — a president with integrity and character, telling the truth, while Trump lied repeatedly.”
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper said the election is “the biggest of our lifetime,” emphasizing the choice between “Donald Trump’s America” and a different future.
Several Biden supporters acknowledged his lackluster performance but defended him. “It wasn’t his best night, but he’s a better president,” said John Burns. “He’s a better man, and he’s going to get my vote and my work for the next five months.”
Tara Winters emphasized Biden’s contributions, stating, “When you look at his overall impact on our country, it’s clear he’s more than just one moment in time.”
David Tillem suggested pacing the campaign better, but affirmed Biden’s ability to lead.