Biden concedes debate fumbles but declares he will defend democracy

Biden appeared to acknowledge the criticism during a rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, saying: 'I don’t debate as well as I used to'

US President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden walk to the stage to speak at a campaign rally Raleigh, North Carolina (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

US President Joe Biden forcefully tried on Friday to quell Democratic anxieties over his unsteady showing in his debate with former president Donald Trump, as elected members of his party closed ranks around him in an effort to shut down talk of replacing him.

Mr Biden’s halting delivery and meandering comments, particularly early in Thursday evening’s debate, fuelled concerns from even members of his own party that at the age of 81 he is capable of leading the country for another four years.