Speaking to a packed arena in Chicago on the first night of the Democratic National Convention, Mr Biden offered a full-throated defence of his presidency – touching on many of the themes that he campaigned on in 2020 and again this year before abandoning his re-election bid in mid-July, a few weeks after a catastrophic debate performance.

Mr Biden had walked out onto the stage after being introduced by his daughter Ashley and wife, Jill, who told the audience she “saw him dig deep into his soul” when he decided to exit the presidential race.

His speech had a keen eye on his place in history but he spent time singing the praises of his vice-president – the woman he hopes will succeed him in the White House.

He said Selecting Kamala was the very first decision he made when he became nominee and it’s the best decision he has made in his whole career.

 He said “She’s tough, she’s experienced, and she has enormous integrity.”