It was Joe Biden's first chance to define how he will be judged by history.
It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president. But in the defense of democracy, which is at stake, I think it’s more important than any title.
While Biden did not mention Donald Trump by name, he tried to draw a clear contrast with the former president, whose ambition led him to claim victory in an election he did not win four years ago.
The great thing about America is, here, kings and dictators do not rule,” Biden said. “The people do. History is in your hands, the idea of America lies in your hands.
His speech marked his first extensive remarks since his announcement Sunday that he was not running and was the first time many Americans have seen him since he tested positive for Covid-19 last week.