Harris defends Biden's debate performance against Trump amid criticism

In a tense interview, Vice President Kamala Harris defended President Joe Biden's record and downplayed his faltering moments during the recent presidential debate with Donald Trump.

Top Democrats expressed alarm over Biden’s shaky performance on Thursday night. In interviews with CNN and MSNBC, Harris argued that Biden should be judged on his record rather than his debate performance.

“Joe Biden is extraordinarily strong,” Harris said, as CNN's Anderson Cooper pressed her on Biden's handling of the debate.

Harris conceded that Biden did not perform expertly at the start. “It was a slow start, that’s obvious to everyone,” she said. “I’m not going to debate that.”

At a virtual watch party with supporters, Harris assured them with prepared remarks. “He got into a groove where it counted,” she said. “Our president showed that he will win the election.”

On CNN, she emphasised that the election must be decided “on substance,” not on debate style. Harris highlighted false claims made by former President Donald Trump during the debate and raised concerns about potential restrictions on abortion access if he returns to office.

In her MSNBC interview, Harris described Biden's messaging as “clear” and noted his firm stance on enshrining abortion access in a second term. Despite acknowledging Biden’s slow start, she added, “I thought it was a strong finish.”

Harris is expected to address supporters at a rally in Las Vegas on Friday.