Democratic operatives and officials have reacted with panic and dismay after Joe Biden’s stumbling performance in the presidential debate refocused attention on his age and sharpness. Watch in for more details!

US: Democrats in dismay after Biden's poor performance in debate

US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump went head-to-head in the first presidential debate on Thursday as they fight to win over voters ahead of the election later this year. Watch in for more details!

US Presidential Debate: Voters react to first US Presidential debate

US President Joe Biden and his Republican predecessor Donald Trump sparred during the first presidential debate ahead of the November presidential elections.&nbsp;An ageing Joe Biden, 81, just three years older than his challenger Donald Trump, struggled as Trump delivered some of the most damaging attacks on the veteran Democrat.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-vs-trump-in-us-presidential-debate-2024-top-takeaways-explained-735850">Ageing Biden struggles as Trump delivers damaging attacks: Top takeaways from US presidential debate 2024</a>

<h2>US presidential debate 2024:&nbsp;Top quotes</h2>

1. 'You have the morals of an alley cat': US President Joe Biden said while taking a dig at Donald&nbsp;Trump over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-stormy-daniels-the-porn-star-who-could-send-trump-to-jail-574948">Stormy Daniels</a> hush money case. Biden said&nbsp;that the former president had "sex with a porn star when his wife was pregnant". "First of all, I did not have sex with a porn star," Trump responded while informing&nbsp;that he is going to appeal the verdict of a Manhattan court in the same.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Biden and Trump square off in a crucial high-stakes debate

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2.&nbsp;'We are the most stupid people in the world':&nbsp;Donald Trump said&nbsp;while responding to a question on the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021. "On Jan 6 we had a great border, we were energy independence, we were respected all over the world.&nbsp;Then he (Biden) comes in and we are one of the most stupid people across the world." Biden said that no president in the US history has ever spoken like that.&nbsp;

3.&nbsp;'Zelensky is the greatest salesman in the world':&nbsp;Donald Trump said while responding to the question if he will accept Russian President Vladimir Putin's terms to end the war in Ukraine. "Putin's terms are not acceptable. This war was never to be started. He gave Ukraine $200bn. Zelensky&nbsp;turns out to be the greatest salesman," Trump said.

4. 'It's Biden migrant crime':&nbsp;Donald Trump termed the rise in crimes which he linked to the rise in illegal crossings along the southern US border.&nbsp;Biden, meanwhile, went after Trump for "snatching children from their mothers" whilst he was in power.&nbsp;

5. 'Afghanistan exit most embarrassing day in the history of our country':&nbsp;Donald Trump told Biden&nbsp;at least thrice during the course of the presidential debate. Trump even reasoned that Russian President Vladimir Putin found "courage" to launch an invasion of Ukraine following the disastrous optics that emerged out of the US' exit from Afghanistan in August 2021.&nbsp;

6. 'We&nbsp;are closer to World War III':&nbsp;Donald Trump claimed that the Biden administration is driving the world towards a third World War. "We are closer to World War III&nbsp;and he is driving us there."

7. 'The world is envious of us':&nbsp;Joe Biden hit out at Trump for describing the US as a "failing country". "No president in the US history has talked about this country like that. The world is envious of us," Biden said.

US President Joe Biden and his Republican predecessor Donald Trump sparred during the first presidential debate ahead of the November presidential elections. An ageing Joe Biden, 81, just three years older than his challenger Donald Trump, struggled as Trump delivered some of the most damaging attacks on the veteran Democrat.

US President Joe Biden and his Republican predecessor Donald Trump sparred during the first presidential debate ahead of the November presidential elections. An ageing Joe Biden, 81, just three years older than his challenger Donald Trump, struggled as Trump delivered some of the most damaging attacks on the veteran Democrat. Also read | Ageing Biden struggles as Trump delivers damaging attacks: Top takeaways from US presidential debate 2024 US presidential debate 2024: Top quotes 1. 'You have the morals of an alley cat': US President Joe Biden said while taking a dig at Donald Trump over Stormy Daniels hush money case. Biden said that the former president had "sex with a porn star when his wife was pregnant". "First of all, I did not have sex with a porn star," Trump responded while informing that he is going to appeal the verdict of a Manhattan court in the same. Also watch | Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Biden and Trump square off in a crucial high-stakes debate × 2. 'We are the most stupid people in the world': Donald Trump said while responding to a question on the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021. "On Jan 6 we had a great border, we were energy independence, we were respected all over the world. Then he (Biden) comes in and we are one of the most stupid people across the world." Biden said that no president in the US history has ever spoken like that. 3. 'Zelensky is the greatest salesman in the world': Donald Trump said while responding to the question if he will accept Russian President Vladimir Putin's terms to end the war in Ukraine. "Putin's terms are not acceptable. This war was never to be started. He gave Ukraine $200bn. Zelensky turns out to be the greatest salesman," Trump said. 4. 'It's Biden migrant crime': Donald Trump termed the rise in crimes which he linked to the rise in illegal crossings along the southern US border. Biden, meanwhile, went after Trump for "snatching children from their mothers" whilst he was in power. 5. 'Afghanistan exit most embarrassing day in the history of our country': Donald Trump told Biden at least thrice during the course of the presidential debate. Trump even reasoned that Russian President Vladimir Putin found "courage" to launch an invasion of Ukraine following the disastrous optics that emerged out of the US' exit from Afghanistan in August 2021. 6. 'We are closer to World War III': Donald Trump claimed that the Biden administration is driving the world towards a third World War. "We are closer to World War III and he is driving us there." 7. 'The world is envious of us': Joe Biden hit out at Trump for describing the US as a "failing country". "No president in the US history has talked about this country like that. The world is envious of us," Biden said.

From 'morals of an alley cat' to 'World War III': Top phrases from US presidential debate 2024

It was an absolute disaster of a debate, particularly for Biden. The president struggled to respond to questions that should have been simple gimmes on Democratic-leaning themes; he was sometimes difficult to understand and occasionally nonsensical.

Biden vs Trump Debate: "Biden fit?" Questions grow after "shaky" debate against Trump

As Iran voted in the presidential election on Friday (June 28), Iranians living in India also got the opportunity to exercise their franchise. In India, polling centres were set up in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune.

The US presidential debate on Thursday&nbsp;showed former president Donald Trump leading against Biden with 67 per cent of debate watchers in Trump's favour, a flash poll by CNN showed.&nbsp;Biden's team pushed back, including Vice President Kamala Harris, who told CNN, "It was a slow start but a strong finish."

In other news from around the world, India's capital New Delhi received its heaviest rain for June in 88 years.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-presidential-election-iranians-in-india-vote-in-polls-tehran-thanks-new-delhi-736025">Iran presidential election: Iranians in India vote in polls; Tehran thanks New Delhi</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440551-whatsapp-image-2024-06-28-at-185115.jpeg?imwidth=400" />

Iranians living in India on Friday took part in their country's presidential election. In India, the Iranian presidential election was held in&nbsp;Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune.&nbsp;Iran's&nbsp;Ambassador to India Iraj Elahi thanked New Delhi for facilitating and holding the election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-debate-trump-won-but-how-badly-did-biden-lose-735954">US presidential debate: Trump won but how badly did Biden lose?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440483-bidentrump.png?imwidth=400" />

A flash poll by CNN following the US presidential debate on Thursday (June 27) showed former president Donald Trump leading against Biden with 67 per cent of debate watchers in Trump's favour. Only 33 per cent believed that Biden won the debate.&nbsp;"Stunning number from voters who witnessed his performance with their own eyes," political commentator Alyssa Farah Griffin posted on X in response to the poll.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-rains-why-does-the-indian-capital-become-a-traffic-jammed-waterlogged-mess-every-year-736067">Delhi Rains: Why does the Indian capital become a traffic-jammed, waterlogged mess every year?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440559-succession-2024-06-28t195857780.jpg?imwidth=400" />

India’s national capital, Delhi, received its heaviest rain for the month of June in 88 years, with roads being flooded, hours-long traffic jams and the roof of Terminal 1 of the Delhi Airport collapsing and killing one person.&nbsp;The rains came after a gruelling heatwave in which soaring temperatures hovered around 50 degrees Celsius in many areas of the city.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iowa-abortion-ruling-state-supreme-court-lets-strict-law-go-into-effect-736081">Iowa abortion ruling: State Supreme Court lets strict law go into effect</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440566-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

The Supreme Court of the US state of Iowa said on Friday (June 28) that the state's strict abortion law was legal. According to American media, the Supreme Court told a lower court to&nbsp;dissolve a temporary block on the law and allow Iowa to ban most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-five-dead-15-injured-in-glass-factory-blast-in-telangana-state-in-india-736077">At least five dead, 15 injured in glass factory blast in Telangana state in India</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440564-fire.png?imwidth=400" />

At least five died and over a dozen were left injured on Friday (Jun 28) after a tank in a glass factory in south Indian state of Telangana exploded, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;The police also said that the tank in the factory at Shadnagar exploded around 4.30 pm (IST).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-airport-forms-committee-to-probe-roof-collapse-736015">Delhi airport forms committee to probe roof collapse</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440548-succession-2024-06-28t184310835.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The Delhi International Airport management on Friday (June 28) said that it set up a Technical Committee to probe the cause of the roof collapse at Terminal 1 of the airport that killed one person and injured several others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-executed-man-in-2022-for-watching-sharing-south-korean-films-music-report-735997">North Korea executed man in 2022 for watching, sharing South Korean films &amp; music: Report</a>

<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440510-untitled-design.png" />

North Korea publicly executed a 22-year-old man in 2022 for watching and sharing South Korean films and music, The Guardian reported on Friday (June 28) citing South Korea's unification ministry. The man, a resident of the&nbsp;South Hwanghae province, was executed for listening to&nbsp;70 South Korean songs, watching three films, and distributing them,&nbsp;falling foul of a North Korean law that&nbsp;bans “reactionary ideology and culture.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-student-weaves-web-of-lies-including-faking-fathers-death-to-get-us-scholarship-736064">Indian student weaves web of lies, including faking father's death, to get US scholarship</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/02/27/243855-jail-student.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Aryan Anand, an Indian student in the United States, was arrested and deported after he was found to have falsified documents to obtain a full scholarship, media reported.&nbsp;Anand was a student at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-nag-ashwins-film-becomes-third-highest-opening-indian-film-of-all-time-736071">Kalki 2898 AD box office: Nag Ashwin's film becomes third highest opening Indian film of all time</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/27/427824-untitled-design-2024-04-27t174116607.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Kalki 2898 AD&nbsp;is off to a roaring start. The film earned over Rs 1.9 billion worldwide on the first day of its release making it the biggest box office opener of 2024. The film's stupendous performance on the first day of its release has made industry analysts hopeful as the year has been lacklustre in terms of box office earnings of films so far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-from-one-leader-to-another-stokes-backs-buttler-to-retain-job-despite-india-hammering-736083">T20 World Cup: From one leader to another – Stokes backs Buttler to retain job despite India hammering</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440569-t20-wc-englands-stokes-backs-buttler-to-retain-job-despite-india-hammering.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Veteran England all-rounder Ben Stokes has backed Jos Buttler to retain his job as the white-ball captain despite India hammering in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup. Stokes decided against playing at the showpiece event in the Americas to prolong his Test career but called Jos 'still the right man' to lead England in ODIs and T20Is.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As Iran voted in the presidential election on Friday (June 28), Iranians living in India also got the opportunity to exercise their franchise. In India, polling centres were set up in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune.

As Iran voted in the presidential election on Friday (June 28), Iranians living in India also got the opportunity to exercise their franchise. In India, polling centres were set up in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune. The US presidential debate on Thursday showed former president Donald Trump leading against Biden with 67 per cent of debate watchers in Trump's favour, a flash poll by CNN showed. Biden's team pushed back, including Vice President Kamala Harris, who told CNN, "It was a slow start but a strong finish." In other news from around the world, India's capital New Delhi received its heaviest rain for June in 88 years. Click on the headlines to read more: Iran presidential election: Iranians in India vote in polls; Tehran thanks New Delhi Iranians living in India on Friday took part in their country's presidential election. In India, the Iranian presidential election was held in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune. Iran's Ambassador to India Iraj Elahi thanked New Delhi for facilitating and holding the election. US presidential debate: Trump won but how badly did Biden lose? A flash poll by CNN following the US presidential debate on Thursday (June 27) showed former president Donald Trump leading against Biden with 67 per cent of debate watchers in Trump's favour. Only 33 per cent believed that Biden won the debate. "Stunning number from voters who witnessed his performance with their own eyes," political commentator Alyssa Farah Griffin posted on X in response to the poll. Delhi Rains: Why does the Indian capital become a traffic-jammed, waterlogged mess every year? India’s national capital, Delhi, received its heaviest rain for the month of June in 88 years, with roads being flooded, hours-long traffic jams and the roof of Terminal 1 of the Delhi Airport collapsing and killing one person. The rains came after a gruelling heatwave in which soaring temperatures hovered around 50 degrees Celsius in many areas of the city. Iowa abortion ruling: State Supreme Court lets strict law go into effect The Supreme Court of the US state of Iowa said on Friday (June 28) that the state's strict abortion law was legal. According to American media, the Supreme Court told a lower court to dissolve a temporary block on the law and allow Iowa to ban most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy. At least five dead, 15 injured in glass factory blast in Telangana state in India At least five died and over a dozen were left injured on Friday (Jun 28) after a tank in a glass factory in south Indian state of Telangana exploded, news agency PTI reported. The police also said that the tank in the factory at Shadnagar exploded around 4.30 pm (IST). Delhi airport forms committee to probe roof collapse The Delhi International Airport management on Friday (June 28) said that it set up a Technical Committee to probe the cause of the roof collapse at Terminal 1 of the airport that killed one person and injured several others. North Korea executed man in 2022 for watching, sharing South Korean films & music: Report North Korea publicly executed a 22-year-old man in 2022 for watching and sharing South Korean films and music, The Guardian reported on Friday (June 28) citing South Korea's unification ministry. The man, a resident of the South Hwanghae province, was executed for listening to 70 South Korean songs, watching three films, and distributing them, falling foul of a North Korean law that bans “reactionary ideology and culture.” Indian student weaves web of lies, including faking father's death, to get US scholarship Aryan Anand, an Indian student in the United States, was arrested and deported after he was found to have falsified documents to obtain a full scholarship, media reported. Anand was a student at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. Kalki 2898 AD box office: Nag Ashwin's film becomes third highest opening Indian film of all time Kalki 2898 AD is off to a roaring start. The film earned over Rs 1.9 billion worldwide on the first day of its release making it the biggest box office opener of 2024. The film's stupendous performance on the first day of its release has made industry analysts hopeful as the year has been lacklustre in terms of box office earnings of films so far. T20 World Cup: From one leader to another – Stokes backs Buttler to retain job despite India hammering Veteran England all-rounder Ben Stokes has backed Jos Buttler to retain his job as the white-ball captain despite India hammering in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup. Stokes decided against playing at the showpiece event in the Americas to prolong his Test career but called Jos 'still the right man' to lead England in ODIs and T20Is.

Top 10 world news: Iran votes in presidential election, Biden-Trump debate, and more

During a discussion on Thursday, US President Joe Biden and Donald Trump got into a furious argument, sharply criticizing each other's behavior and past accomplishments. Deep divisions in the nation that remain after the turbulent 2020 election are reflected in the high-stakes match that occurred considerably sooner in the election cycle than normal.

Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Biden blames Trump of rewarding the wealthy by cutting tax

Dollar and Bitcoin rise on US Presidential election debate

After joking that he was criticized for being too young during the first part of his political career, Biden went on to highlight his initiatives to increase foreign investment in the United States. In response, Trump said with pride that he had "aced" cognitive testing.

Biden vs Trump: Trump and Biden spar over golf, cognitive test scores to allay age concerns

US Presidential Debate: Biden and Trump spar over age, fitness and golf handicap

Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Biden and Trump trade attacks in first presidential debate

Early in their debate on Thursday night, Democratic President Joe Biden and his Republican opponent Donald Trump traded barbs about abortion and their approaches to the economy, providing voters with a unique opportunity to view the two oldest presidential contenders in history side by side.

Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Trump calls Biden the "WORST" President of all time

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump went head-to-head in the first presidential debate on Thursday as they fight to win over voters ahead of the election later this year.

US President Debate: Trump won but how badly did Biden lose | Trending on WION

Democratic President Joe Biden and his Republican rival Donald Trump traded attacks on abortion and their handling of the economy early in their debate on Thursday night, giving voters a rare side-by-side look at the two oldest candidates ever to seek the US presidency.

Biden vs Trump US Presidential Debate: Age, economy, and immigration among key issues

In today's televised debate, U.S. President Joe Biden and his Republican opponent, Donald Trump, sparred over foreign policy and Russia's war against Ukraine. Biden is the older candidate to run for the presidency of the United States.

Biden and Trump clash over Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas War In TV debate

Joe Biden laid into Donald Trump over his alleged affair with adult star Stormy Daniels at the first debate, slamming the former president for having the “morals of an alley cat”.

Trump vs Biden Debate: Biden and Trump discuss "personal matters" while debating on national TV

A day after the nation hit a new high for coronavirus cases, President Donald Trump returned to the campaign trail for a series of rallies and again sought to minimize the surging pandemic, mocking his rival, Joe Biden, for following the social distancing recommendations of public health officials.

In the face of spiking numbers, Trump on Saturday continued to lean into the idea that the news media and his critics were obsessing about the virus, even as polls show widespread public concern. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll found that a slim majority of voters (including half of independents) believed the worst of the pandemic was yet to come.

“That’s all I hear about now. That’s all I hear, turn on television,” Trump said at a campaign event in Lumberton, North Carolina. “COVID, COVID, COVID, COVID, COVID, COVID,” a refrain he recited in the state as well on Wednesday.

With 10 days left until the election and hundreds of thousands of voters expected to cast their ballots as long lines marked the first weekend of early in-person voting in Florida, New York, Wisconsin and other states, Trump and Biden presented sharply divergent cases, both in words and actions, for how they would handle the virus crisis still gripping the country.

Making two stops in the key battleground of Pennsylvania, Biden cited the milestone in cases and criticized Trump for asserting that the country was “rounding the corner” as cases spiked.

“You’re asking us to learn how to die with it, and it’s wrong,” Biden said at a drive-in rally in the Philadelphia suburbs, recalling his exchange with Trump on the subject at the debate Thursday. He added that there was “going to be a dark winter ahead unless we change our ways.”

The beeping of car horns punctuated his remarks, a familiar soundtrack at his socially distanced drive-in events in the weeks before Election Day. “I wish I could go car to car and meet you all,” Biden said at a community college in Bucks County, where he spoke from a stage decorated with pumpkins and bales of hay. “I don’t like the idea of all this distance, but it’s necessary. I appreciate you being safe. What we don’t want to do is become superspreaders.”

In North Carolina, it seemed that Trump had watched his rival’s event, mocking Biden for his careful crowd limits. “People in cars,” Trump said. “I don’t get it.”

“You heard a couple of horns,” he added. “Honk, honk. It’s the weirdest thing.”

From there, Trump was off to Circleville, Ohio, outside Columbus, and then Waukesha, Wisconsin, as he sought to rally backers in suburban areas where polls show his support has slipped. On Sunday, he will fly to New Hampshire, the lone state on his weekend itinerary that he did not carry in 2016 and part of a hopscotching schedule reminiscent of his intense final push four years ago.

But the virus’ surge has ensured that even Trump’s well-attended rallies can be a political liability, a reminder to voters fearful of the pandemic of his regular disregard for expert and public health advice. Trump used his own contracting of the disease, his weekend of hospitalization and his subsequent recovery as a pitch to minimize the severity of a pandemic that has cost more than 224,000 lives in the United States out of more than 8 million cases.

“By the way, I had it, here I am,” he said.

Trump began his day in Florida, where he joined the more than 56 million Americans who have already voted. He cast his ballot in person at the Palm Beach County Main Library, declaring, “I voted for a guy named Trump.”

Afterward, he also continued to baselessly question the integrity of the election and in particular mail-in ballots. “It’s the only way we can lose,” Trump said, citing the size of crowds at his rallies. Most polls show Trump behind by a sizable margin nationally and in many of the critical battleground states.

Biden’s full day in Pennsylvania was a sign of the state’s crucial importance in his Electoral College calculations. After his rally in Bucks County, which Hillary Clinton won by less than 1 percentage point in 2016 — he flew to Luzerne County in the blue-collar northeastern part of the state, where he held a drive-in rally that included a performance by singer Jon Bon Jovi. Luzerne County is near Biden’s hometown, Scranton, and it is a historically Democratic county that Trump flipped by a wide margin in 2016.

Still, the day had its prickly moments. In a local television interview, Biden interjected when a reporter began to ask a question about “controversy” and his son Hunter Biden. “There is no controversy about my son,” Biden said. “It’s all a lie. It’s a flat lie, because the president has nothing else to run on.”

Along with Biden’s appearances this weekend, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., was in western Pennsylvania on Saturday, holding a get-out-the vote event in Pittsburgh and a drive-in rally with the state’s lieutenant governor, John Fetterman. And in another sign of Pennsylvania’s potential as the 2020 tipping point, the Biden campaign dispatched former President Barack Obama there this past week for his first in-person campaign trip of the general election. Obama campaigned in Florida on Saturday.

“It may come down to Pennsylvania,” Biden said in Bucks County. “And I believe in you. I believe in my state.”

For Trump, it may come down to the coronavirus. At the rally in Circleville on Saturday, along with his continuing focus on Biden’s stance on fracking and his attacks on Hunter Biden, Trump continued his efforts to redefine the virus and his own experience with it.

He played down the threat the pandemic posed, pointing to his own family’s experience as an example of why a virus that has killed more than 224,000 people in the United States is not so bad. “It worked out,” he said of his own hospitalization for the virus. “By the way, 99.9% is good and then you’re immune."

A day after the nation hit a new high for coronavirus cases, President Donald Trump returned to the campaign trail for a series of rallies and again sought to minimize the surging pandemic, mocking his rival, Joe Biden, for following the social distancing recommendations of public health officials.

A day after the nation hit a new high for coronavirus cases, President Donald Trump returned to the campaign trail for a series of rallies and again sought to minimize the surging pandemic, mocking his rival, Joe Biden, for following the social distancing recommendations of public health officials. In the face of spiking numbers, Trump on Saturday continued to lean into the idea that the news media and his critics were obsessing about the virus, even as polls show widespread public concern. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll found that a slim majority of voters (including half of independents) believed the worst of the pandemic was yet to come. “That’s all I hear about now. That’s all I hear, turn on television,” Trump said at a campaign event in Lumberton, North Carolina. “COVID, COVID, COVID, COVID, COVID, COVID,” a refrain he recited in the state as well on Wednesday. With 10 days left until the election and hundreds of thousands of voters expected to cast their ballots as long lines marked the first weekend of early in-person voting in Florida, New York, Wisconsin and other states, Trump and Biden presented sharply divergent cases, both in words and actions, for how they would handle the virus crisis still gripping the country. Making two stops in the key battleground of Pennsylvania, Biden cited the milestone in cases and criticized Trump for asserting that the country was “rounding the corner” as cases spiked. “You’re asking us to learn how to die with it, and it’s wrong,” Biden said at a drive-in rally in the Philadelphia suburbs, recalling his exchange with Trump on the subject at the debate Thursday. He added that there was “going to be a dark winter ahead unless we change our ways.” The beeping of car horns punctuated his remarks, a familiar soundtrack at his socially distanced drive-in events in the weeks before Election Day. “I wish I could go car to car and meet you all,” Biden said at a community college in Bucks County, where he spoke from a stage decorated with pumpkins and bales of hay. “I don’t like the idea of all this distance, but it’s necessary. I appreciate you being safe. What we don’t want to do is become superspreaders.” In North Carolina, it seemed that Trump had watched his rival’s event, mocking Biden for his careful crowd limits. “People in cars,” Trump said. “I don’t get it.” “You heard a couple of horns,” he added. “Honk, honk. It’s the weirdest thing.” From there, Trump was off to Circleville, Ohio, outside Columbus, and then Waukesha, Wisconsin, as he sought to rally backers in suburban areas where polls show his support has slipped. On Sunday, he will fly to New Hampshire, the lone state on his weekend itinerary that he did not carry in 2016 and part of a hopscotching schedule reminiscent of his intense final push four years ago. But the virus’ surge has ensured that even Trump’s well-attended rallies can be a political liability, a reminder to voters fearful of the pandemic of his regular disregard for expert and public health advice. Trump used his own contracting of the disease, his weekend of hospitalization and his subsequent recovery as a pitch to minimize the severity of a pandemic that has cost more than 224,000 lives in the United States out of more than 8 million cases. “By the way, I had it, here I am,” he said. Trump began his day in Florida, where he joined the more than 56 million Americans who have already voted. He cast his ballot in person at the Palm Beach County Main Library, declaring, “I voted for a guy named Trump.” Afterward, he also continued to baselessly question the integrity of the election and in particular mail-in ballots. “It’s the only way we can lose,” Trump said, citing the size of crowds at his rallies. Most polls show Trump behind by a sizable margin nationally and in many of the critical battleground states. Biden’s full day in Pennsylvania was a sign of the state’s crucial importance in his Electoral College calculations. After his rally in Bucks County, which Hillary Clinton won by less than 1 percentage point in 2016 — he flew to Luzerne County in the blue-collar northeastern part of the state, where he held a drive-in rally that included a performance by singer Jon Bon Jovi. Luzerne County is near Biden’s hometown, Scranton, and it is a historically Democratic county that Trump flipped by a wide margin in 2016. Still, the day had its prickly moments. In a local television interview, Biden interjected when a reporter began to ask a question about “controversy” and his son Hunter Biden. “There is no controversy about my son,” Biden said. “It’s all a lie. It’s a flat lie, because the president has nothing else to run on.” Along with Biden’s appearances this weekend, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., was in western Pennsylvania on Saturday, holding a get-out-the vote event in Pittsburgh and a drive-in rally with the state’s lieutenant governor, John Fetterman. And in another sign of Pennsylvania’s potential as the 2020 tipping point, the Biden campaign dispatched former President Barack Obama there this past week for his first in-person campaign trip of the general election. Obama campaigned in Florida on Saturday. “It may come down to Pennsylvania,” Biden said in Bucks County. “And I believe in you. I believe in my state.” For Trump, it may come down to the coronavirus. At the rally in Circleville on Saturday, along with his continuing focus on Biden’s stance on fracking and his attacks on Hunter Biden, Trump continued his efforts to redefine the virus and his own experience with it. He played down the threat the pandemic posed, pointing to his own family’s experience as an example of why a virus that has killed more than 224,000 people in the United States is not so bad. “It worked out,” he said of his own hospitalization for the virus. “By the way, 99.9% is good and then you’re immune."

Virus surge shadows Trump and Biden campaign events after final debate

'Look at India. It's filthy. The air is filthy' said Donald Trump in the final Presidential Debate 2020. WION's Palki Sharma asks: Should the world's 'biggest climate change denier' be talking about India?

Gravitas: North Korea warns against 'Coronavirus dust storm' from China

Gravitas: Should Trump be preaching India?

With Joe Biden & DonaldTrump electronically muted for portions of the debate, the constant interruptions were replaced by a sharply defined personal attacks, accusations & confusion. WION brings you the best moments from the final Presidential Debate 2020.

Personal attacks, confusion & time

In their final chance, DonaldTrump & and Joe Biden unleashed a series of falsehoods, misleading & exaggerated statements. WION fact-checks the Final Presidential Debate2020.

Falsehoods, misleading & exaggerated claims

Watch the final round of presidential debate of the 2020 US election between President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden.

Watch: Final round of presidential debate of the 2020 US election between Donald Trump & Joe Biden

Only 11 days are left for the presidential election in the United States and President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump </a>and Democratic nominee <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> will give one of the final and major pushes to the presidency bid when they will clash for the last presidential debate late on Thursday.

The 90-minute US election final debate will be held at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Let's take a look at what all can be expected in this final US presidential debate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/barack-obama-enters-the-field-blasts-donald-trump-in-first-us-election-rally-for-joe-biden-337016">Barack Obama enters the field, blasts Donald Trump in first US election rally for Joe Biden</a>

<h2>Mute button</h2>

After many interruptions in the first US election debate, the final debate will feature the mute button, in which one candidate will be muted when the other one is speaking in the allotted two-minute period when questions will be asked by the moderator.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-russia-obtained-voter-registration-information-says-us-intelligence-director-john-ratcliffe-337000">Iran, Russia obtained voter registration information, says US intelligence director John Ratcliffe</a> 
&nbsp;

<h2>Pressure on host?</h2>

After the first presidential debate, moderator Chris Wallace came under a lot of criticism for unable to control the debate, with interruptions happening during the entire debate. This time's moderator Kristen Welker is already being attacked by Trump for being "terrible" and "unfair". How will Welker handle both the candidates, only time will tell.

<h2>Trump's attack and Biden's patience</h2>

In the first face-off, Trump constantly pushed and interrupted Biden, which forced the latter calling the US president "shut up". It has to be seen whether Trump will again follow a similar approach to get under the skin of Biden and if Biden can able to counter him or not.&nbsp;

Only 11 days are left for the presidential election in the United States and President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden will give one of the final and major pushes to the presidency bid when they will clash for the last presidential debate late on Thursday.

Only 11 days are left for the presidential election in the United States and President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden will give one of the final and major pushes to the presidency bid when they will clash for the last presidential debate late on Thursday. The 90-minute US election final debate will be held at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Let's take a look at what all can be expected in this final US presidential debate. Also read | Barack Obama enters the field, blasts Donald Trump in first US election rally for Joe Biden Mute button After many interruptions in the first US election debate, the final debate will feature the mute button, in which one candidate will be muted when the other one is speaking in the allotted two-minute period when questions will be asked by the moderator. Also read | Iran, Russia obtained voter registration information, says US intelligence director John Ratcliffe Pressure on host? After the first presidential debate, moderator Chris Wallace came under a lot of criticism for unable to control the debate, with interruptions happening during the entire debate. This time's moderator Kristen Welker is already being attacked by Trump for being "terrible" and "unfair". How will Welker handle both the candidates, only time will tell. Trump's attack and Biden's patience In the first face-off, Trump constantly pushed and interrupted Biden, which forced the latter calling the US president "shut up". It has to be seen whether Trump will again follow a similar approach to get under the skin of Biden and if Biden can able to counter him or not.

US election 2020: What to expect as Donald Trump, Joe Biden gear up for final debate

US President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden held simultaneous and separate televised town halls in lieu of the cancelled second presidential debate.

They took questions from pre-selected individuals at sessions moderated by eminent television journalists.

While Trump's town hall was hosted by the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) in Miami, Florida, that of Biden was held in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia by the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) News.

The second presidential debate had originally been scheduled for Thursday night. However, it was cancelled after Trump refused to participate in a virtual format of the presidential debate as amended by the independent debate commission following the president's COVID-19 diagnosis.

A final debate is still scheduled for October 22 in Nashville, Tennessee. The first debate was held on September 29 in Cleveland, Ohio.

During the town hall, Trump defended his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. He also reiterated his stand on tax returns. However, Trump refused to denounce the QAnon conspiracy theory.

When asked by moderator Savannah Guthrie if he would denounce the QAnon theory and "just say it's crazy and not true", Trump said, "I don't know about QAnon."

Biden's during his town hall said he would soon express his position on court packing, an issue that he has avoided so far.

The Democratic presidential nominee said he would come out with a clear position before Election Day about where he stands on expanding the Supreme Court, depending how the rest of the confirmation process of Judge Amy Coney Barrett is handled.

President Trump has selected Judge Barrett to succeed Supreme Court Justice late Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

The Senate Judiciary Committee finished its confirmation hearings for Barrett earlier on Thursday. Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham said that the committee will vote on Barrett's nomination on October 22. If the committee approves her nomination, which is expected, it would be sent to the full Senate floor.

At the town hall with ABC's George Stephanopoulos, Biden said he is "not a fan" of court packing. When asked by Stephanopoulos if he was open to increasing the number of judges on the court if Barrett is confirmed before the election, Biden said, "I'm open to considering what happens from that point on".

Republicans have repeatedly criticised Biden for not directly giving his view on court packing.

"They do have a right to know where I'll stand and they'll have a right to know where I stand before they vote," Biden said, when asked whether voters had a right to know where he stands on the issue of expanding the court.

Replying to a question on if he would make his position clear before the Election Day, Biden said, "Yes, depending on how they handle this", referring to the Republicans.

Both Trump and Biden campaigns claimed that their candidates won the shows Thursday night.

"Even though the commission cancelled the in-person debate that could have happened tonight, one occurred anyway, and President Trump soundly defeated NBC's Savannah Guthrie in her role as debate opponent and Joe Biden surrogate," said Tim Murtaugh, Trump 2020 communications director.

"President Trump masterfully handled Guthrie's attacks and interacted warmly and effectively with the voters in the room," he said.

"Joe Biden gave thoughtful answers to voters' questions about COVID-19, taxes, racial equity, climate change, and more...1,100 miles away, and in a false, alternate reality of his own making, President Trump was combative and lashed out at voters. He refused to denounce QAnon...He lied about the effectiveness of masks," he said.

"Trump has no answers for his failures to contain COVID-19 and manage our economy. And, after nearly four years in office, Trump still has no vision for how he'll make health care more affordable," Bedingfield said.

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Trump has recovered from a brief spell of COVID-19 after he and First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for the deadly viral infection on October 1. Trump's doctors have now cleared him for his election campaigns.

US President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden held simultaneous and separate televised town halls in lieu of the cancelled second presidential debate.

US President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden held simultaneous and separate televised town halls in lieu of the cancelled second presidential debate. They took questions from pre-selected individuals at sessions moderated by eminent television journalists. While Trump's town hall was hosted by the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) in Miami, Florida, that of Biden was held in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia by the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) News. The second presidential debate had originally been scheduled for Thursday night. However, it was cancelled after Trump refused to participate in a virtual format of the presidential debate as amended by the independent debate commission following the president's COVID-19 diagnosis. A final debate is still scheduled for October 22 in Nashville, Tennessee. The first debate was held on September 29 in Cleveland, Ohio. During the town hall, Trump defended his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. He also reiterated his stand on tax returns. However, Trump refused to denounce the QAnon conspiracy theory. When asked by moderator Savannah Guthrie if he would denounce the QAnon theory and "just say it's crazy and not true", Trump said, "I don't know about QAnon." Biden's during his town hall said he would soon express his position on court packing, an issue that he has avoided so far. The Democratic presidential nominee said he would come out with a clear position before Election Day about where he stands on expanding the Supreme Court, depending how the rest of the confirmation process of Judge Amy Coney Barrett is handled. President Trump has selected Judge Barrett to succeed Supreme Court Justice late Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The Senate Judiciary Committee finished its confirmation hearings for Barrett earlier on Thursday. Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham said that the committee will vote on Barrett's nomination on October 22. If the committee approves her nomination, which is expected, it would be sent to the full Senate floor. At the town hall with ABC's George Stephanopoulos, Biden said he is "not a fan" of court packing. When asked by Stephanopoulos if he was open to increasing the number of judges on the court if Barrett is confirmed before the election, Biden said, "I'm open to considering what happens from that point on". Republicans have repeatedly criticised Biden for not directly giving his view on court packing. "They do have a right to know where I'll stand and they'll have a right to know where I stand before they vote," Biden said, when asked whether voters had a right to know where he stands on the issue of expanding the court. Replying to a question on if he would make his position clear before the Election Day, Biden said, "Yes, depending on how they handle this", referring to the Republicans. Both Trump and Biden campaigns claimed that their candidates won the shows Thursday night. "Even though the commission cancelled the in-person debate that could have happened tonight, one occurred anyway, and President Trump soundly defeated NBC's Savannah Guthrie in her role as debate opponent and Joe Biden surrogate," said Tim Murtaugh, Trump 2020 communications director. "President Trump masterfully handled Guthrie's attacks and interacted warmly and effectively with the voters in the room," he said. "Joe Biden gave thoughtful answers to voters' questions about COVID-19, taxes, racial equity, climate change, and more...1,100 miles away, and in a false, alternate reality of his own making, President Trump was combative and lashed out at voters. He refused to denounce QAnon...He lied about the effectiveness of masks," he said. "Trump has no answers for his failures to contain COVID-19 and manage our economy. And, after nearly four years in office, Trump still has no vision for how he'll make health care more affordable," Bedingfield said. × Trump has recovered from a brief spell of COVID-19 after he and First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for the deadly viral infection on October 1. Trump's doctors have now cleared him for his election campaigns.

Trump, Biden hold separate town halls in lieu of cancelled second presidential debate

Donald Trump's decision to walk away from the next presidential debate because it was set to be held virtually between the President and Democratic nominee Joe Biden into question. This was done because Trump's positive coronavirus diagnosis is altering his reelection bid.

Second Presidential debate to be virtual: Trump rejects virtual debate

The first presidential debate between President Donald Trump & Democrat nominee Joe Biden was more of a yelling match than a structured exchange of ideas. Watch the report to know more.

US Election 2020: First debate of the most polarised election; WION-VOA Co-Production

How bad was the U.S. Presidential debate? So bad that Americans are looking for ways to apply for Canadian citizenship. Some want to move to 'Canda'. WION's Palki has the details.

Gravitas: Presidential Debate Impact? Americans want to move to 'Canda'

In a socially distanced 1st US Presidential election debate, Donald Trump & Joe Biden expressed their acrid contempt for each other. So who won this first round of debate? Palki Sharma Upadhyay discusses with a special panel of guests.

US Election Dialogue: Who won the first round of Presidential election debate?

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<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Biden calls Trump a 'clown' as candidates spar in first presidential debate UK PM Boris Johnson reprimanded for 'contempt' of parliament UK resumes US beef expo

Biden calls Trump a 'clown' as candidates spar in first presidential debate UK PM Boris Johnson reprimanded for 'contempt' of parliament UK resumes US beef exports after two-decade ban lifted 'The Berlin patient' - First person to be cured of HIV dies due to cancer Armenia and Azerbaijan reject talks as clashes continue for fourth day Iraq says 'not happy' with US pullout threat Paris rattled by sonic boom from military jet Belgium forms new government after 16-month deadlock World Bank announces COVID-19 relief initiative worth $12 billion for low-income countries WATCH: COVID-19: Russia completes clinical trials of second vaccine

Top 10 world news: First US presidential debate, Paris' sonic boom, and more

Six Democratic hopefuls are sharing a platform for the principal discussion of the new year and the last before the much-awaited Iowa caucuses.

The discussion on the grounds of Drake University highlights four of the six competitors driving the enormous presidential pack: Ex-Vice President Joe Biden; 32nd Mayor of South Bend Peter Paul Montgomery Buttigieg; and Senators Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trumps-impeachment-what-happens-next-274216">Also read: US President Donald Trump's impeachment —&nbsp;What happens next</a>

The first choosing challenge of the essential, the Iowa caucuses, will happen over the state only half a month later on February 3.

For the US President, Wisconsin is a crucial state. Traditionally, the state has gone to the Democrats.But in 2016, Trump carried Wisconsin by fewer than 23,000 votes.

But the democrats feel they can reclaim the state in 2020. Which is why Trump is scheduled to make frequent visits to Wisconsin in the coming months.

There were a couple of protests outside the University of Wisconsin where Trump is holding his rally.

He aimed at the Democrats saying they were impeaching him for giving America its greatest ever economy.

Over in Iowa, 6 democrats are vying to challenge trump later this year.

The last Democratic debate before the Iowa caucuses started just a while back.

All eyes will, of course, be on the top 3 contenders -- Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders.

In the aftermath of Qasem Soleimani's killing, foreign affairs are expected to figure prominently in the debate.

Sanders versus warren is the fight to watch out for.

The debate is happening in the backdrop of Elizabeth warren's allegation that sanders told her that a woman could not win the Democratic nomination and defeat Donald Trump.

Sanders has categorically denied the allegations.At some point in the debate, this issue might also play out between the two left-leaning candidates.

Six Democratic hopefuls are sharing a platform for the principal discussion of the new year and the last before the much-awaited Iowa caucuses. The discussion on the grounds of Drake University highlights four of the six competitors driving the enormous presidential pack: Ex-Vice President Joe Biden; 32nd Mayor of South Bend Peter Paul Montgomery Buttigieg; and Senators Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

Six Democratic hopefuls are sharing a platform for the principal discussion of the new year and the last before the much-awaited Iowa caucuses. The discussion on the grounds of Drake University highlights four of the six competitors driving the enormous presidential pack: Ex-Vice President Joe Biden; 32nd Mayor of South Bend Peter Paul Montgomery Buttigieg; and Senators Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. Also read: US President Donald Trump's impeachment — What happens next The first choosing challenge of the essential, the Iowa caucuses, will happen over the state only half a month later on February 3. For the US President, Wisconsin is a crucial state. Traditionally, the state has gone to the Democrats.But in 2016, Trump carried Wisconsin by fewer than 23,000 votes. But the democrats feel they can reclaim the state in 2020. Which is why Trump is scheduled to make frequent visits to Wisconsin in the coming months. There were a couple of protests outside the University of Wisconsin where Trump is holding his rally. He aimed at the Democrats saying they were impeaching him for giving America its greatest ever economy. Over in Iowa, 6 democrats are vying to challenge trump later this year. The last Democratic debate before the Iowa caucuses started just a while back. All eyes will, of course, be on the top 3 contenders -- Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders. In the aftermath of Qasem Soleimani's killing, foreign affairs are expected to figure prominently in the debate. Sanders versus warren is the fight to watch out for. The debate is happening in the backdrop of Elizabeth warren's allegation that sanders told her that a woman could not win the Democratic nomination and defeat Donald Trump. Sanders has categorically denied the allegations.At some point in the debate, this issue might also play out between the two left-leaning candidates.

Democratic debate: Six candidates face off in Iowa's capital city Des Moines

New York business tycoon Michael Bloomberg has paved the way for a shot at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dismisses-little-michael-bloombergs-likely-white-house-run-260893">US presidency</a>, registering as a candidate in the Alabama Democratic primary race before Friday's filing deadline.&nbsp;

Although the 77-year-old billionaire has not publicly announced his run, his inclusion among a crowded field kept his options open for mounting a concerted bid to topple a fellow New Yorker, President Donald Trump.

Analysts say a Bloomberg candidacy could do the most damage to the prospects of frontrunner Joe Biden, but the former vice president put on a brave face Friday and said he was not worried Bloomberg would draw away centrist voters.

Bloomberg's name was posted among 17 candidates on the Alabama Democratic Party's website only hours before registration closed.&nbsp;

Alabama is not one of the early primaries but it has the earliest deadline to register.

Biden, who will also turn 77 on November 20, has placed himself in the political center with South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, while Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren run to his left.

"Michael's a solid guy," Biden told reporters in Concord, New Hampshire while registering to take part in the February primary in the northeastern state.

"I have no, no problem with him getting in the race," Biden said. "And in terms of he's running because of me, last polls I looked at I'm pretty far ahead.

"If I'm not mistaken I'm doing pretty well, both relative to Trump and relative to all the people running," he said.

Jason Mollica of American University said the entry of Bloomberg in the race could be "an indication that he believes the Democrats do not have a strong candidate that can defeat President Trump."

"Mr Biden's campaign isn't the strength it was at the start and if Mr Bloomberg gains the support of the centrists in the Democratic Party, that is a big sign for Mr Biden the party doesn't feel he's the right candidate, either," Mollica said.

Kyle Kondik of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia said a Bloomberg run could conceivably draw support away from Biden but it remains to be seen how much backing he'll receive in a crowded field.

"At first blush, yes, one might think Bloomberg would hurt Biden more than others," Kondik said. "But we have to remember that sometimes voters don't fit neatly into ideological categories.

"While neither is running hard to the left and both are older white men, voters might perceive key differences between them," Kondik said. "Bloomberg has to actually show he can draw significant support in order to hurt Biden."

'Doesn't have the magic'

Trump weighed in Friday on a potential Bloomberg bid.

"Little Michael will fail," Trump told reporters in a reference to the stature of the 5ft, 8in (1.73m) Bloomberg. "He doesn't have the magic to do well.&nbsp;

"There's nobody I'd rather run against than little Michael," Trump added. "He's not going to do well but I think he's going to hurt Biden actually."

Bloomberg said back in March he wouldn't run, but has been toying for weeks with the idea of seeking the White House after all, according to advisors.

"We now need to finish the job and ensure that Trump is defeated -- but Mike is increasingly concerned that the current field of candidates is not well-positioned to do that," Bloomberg advisor Howard Wolfson said in a statement.

"Based on his record of accomplishment, leadership and his ability to bring people together to drive change, Mike would be able to take the fight to Trump and win," Wolfson added, according to Bloomberg News.

Bloomberg, co-founder and CEO of the media and financial information company that bears his name, is one of the richest people in the United States according to Forbes, worth $52.4 billion.

His huge personal wealth would likely shake up the contest at a time when Biden's fundraising is sagging.

Bloomberg, who was elected mayor of the Big Apple in 2001 and served until 2013, is seen as close to Wall Street and opposed to some of the policies espoused by the more liberal Warren and Sanders.

His entry would bloat an already crowded field of contenders, with 17 candidates vying for the right to take on Trump in November 2020 as the Democratic nominee.

Bloomberg has switched between the Republican and Democratic parties over the years and also served as an independent mayor.

He has used some of his fortune to back Democratic politicians and fund policies that he believes in -- including gun control and the fight against climate change.

Bloomberg considered running for president as an independent in 2016 but eventually opted not to for fear of splitting the Democratic vote.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

New York business tycoon Michael Bloomberg has paved the way for a shot at the US presidency, registering as a candidate in the Alabama Democratic primary race before Friday's filing deadline.

New York business tycoon Michael Bloomberg has paved the way for a shot at the US presidency, registering as a candidate in the Alabama Democratic primary race before Friday's filing deadline. Although the 77-year-old billionaire has not publicly announced his run, his inclusion among a crowded field kept his options open for mounting a concerted bid to topple a fellow New Yorker, President Donald Trump. Analysts say a Bloomberg candidacy could do the most damage to the prospects of frontrunner Joe Biden, but the former vice president put on a brave face Friday and said he was not worried Bloomberg would draw away centrist voters. Bloomberg's name was posted among 17 candidates on the Alabama Democratic Party's website only hours before registration closed. Alabama is not one of the early primaries but it has the earliest deadline to register. Biden, who will also turn 77 on November 20, has placed himself in the political center with South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, while Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren run to his left. "Michael's a solid guy," Biden told reporters in Concord, New Hampshire while registering to take part in the February primary in the northeastern state. "I have no, no problem with him getting in the race," Biden said. "And in terms of he's running because of me, last polls I looked at I'm pretty far ahead. "If I'm not mistaken I'm doing pretty well, both relative to Trump and relative to all the people running," he said. Jason Mollica of American University said the entry of Bloomberg in the race could be "an indication that he believes the Democrats do not have a strong candidate that can defeat President Trump." "Mr Biden's campaign isn't the strength it was at the start and if Mr Bloomberg gains the support of the centrists in the Democratic Party, that is a big sign for Mr Biden the party doesn't feel he's the right candidate, either," Mollica said. Kyle Kondik of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia said a Bloomberg run could conceivably draw support away from Biden but it remains to be seen how much backing he'll receive in a crowded field. "At first blush, yes, one might think Bloomberg would hurt Biden more than others," Kondik said. "But we have to remember that sometimes voters don't fit neatly into ideological categories. "While neither is running hard to the left and both are older white men, voters might perceive key differences between them," Kondik said. "Bloomberg has to actually show he can draw significant support in order to hurt Biden." 'Doesn't have the magic' Trump weighed in Friday on a potential Bloomberg bid. "Little Michael will fail," Trump told reporters in a reference to the stature of the 5ft, 8in (1.73m) Bloomberg. "He doesn't have the magic to do well. "There's nobody I'd rather run against than little Michael," Trump added. "He's not going to do well but I think he's going to hurt Biden actually." Bloomberg said back in March he wouldn't run, but has been toying for weeks with the idea of seeking the White House after all, according to advisors. "We now need to finish the job and ensure that Trump is defeated -- but Mike is increasingly concerned that the current field of candidates is not well-positioned to do that," Bloomberg advisor Howard Wolfson said in a statement. "Based on his record of accomplishment, leadership and his ability to bring people together to drive change, Mike would be able to take the fight to Trump and win," Wolfson added, according to Bloomberg News. Bloomberg, co-founder and CEO of the media and financial information company that bears his name, is one of the richest people in the United States according to Forbes, worth $52.4 billion. His huge personal wealth would likely shake up the contest at a time when Biden's fundraising is sagging. Bloomberg, who was elected mayor of the Big Apple in 2001 and served until 2013, is seen as close to Wall Street and opposed to some of the policies espoused by the more liberal Warren and Sanders. His entry would bloat an already crowded field of contenders, with 17 candidates vying for the right to take on Trump in November 2020 as the Democratic nominee. Bloomberg has switched between the Republican and Democratic parties over the years and also served as an independent mayor. He has used some of his fortune to back Democratic politicians and fund policies that he believes in -- including gun control and the fight against climate change. Bloomberg considered running for president as an independent in 2016 but eventually opted not to for fear of splitting the Democratic vote.

Bloomberg files papers paving way for US presidential bid

Police have arrested the Greenpeace climate protesters who closed part of a key oil export waterway for 18 hours by tying themselves to a bridge and dangling over the water.

The closure of one portion of the Houston Ship Channel, which stretches 53 miles (85 km) from its entrance in the Gulf of Mexico to the Port of Houston, blocked tanker ship traffic to and from five major oil refineries as well as chemical and oil-export terminals.

Twelve people were taken into police custody shortly after 5pm, Thursday, according to spokesmen for Greenpeace and the Harris County Sheriff's office. The other 11 who were dangling by ropes and attached to one another were arrested late on Thursday and early Friday, police said.

Sheriff's deputies rappelled down to the 11, cut the ropes tying them to one another and lowered each individually to police boats, spokesman Jason Spencer said.

The protesters timed the event to coincide with the nationally televised debate in Houston by 10 Democratic White House contenders, one member said.

Mike Herbert, 36, a protester reached by phone while he dangled about 100 feet from the bridge, said the group wanted to "force the hand of the political hopefuls to address the elephant in the room: climate change."

The east Texas native who now lives in Maryland said members of the group were experienced climbers and had planned to continue the protest until Friday morning. They risked arrest because political leaders "aren't taking climate change seriously," he said.

Greenpeace spokesman Ryan Schleeter said that the protesters did not resist arrest and were prepared to face whatever charges were be leveled.

"We'll know more about the charges in the morning," Schleeter said. "Although they were prepared to stay for 24 hours, we feel that we have achieved our goal and sent a powerful message."

He said that now is the time for lawmakers to take climate change seriously.

A sheriff's representative was not available early Friday to comment on charges that the protesters face.

Briscoe Cain, a Texas state lawmaker whose district includes part of the ship channel, said the protesters would be the first to be charged under a recently enacted state law that makes disrupting critical infrastructure a crime.

Federal prosecutor Ryan Patrick earlier tweeted that his office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation were working with local police. His office did not respond to requests for comment.

Two vessel arrivals and seven departures were disrupted by the protests at mid-afternoon on Thursday, said Steven Nerheim, director of the Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service for Houston-Galveston. The service normally sees 65 ships and 378 towing vessels per day.

The area affected by the closing is near Exxon Mobil Corp's 560,500-barrel-per-day refinery in Baytown, which is 26 miles (42 km) east of Houston.

Operations were normal at the plant on Thursday, said Exxon spokesman Jeremy Eikenberry. The refinery is the fourth-largest in the United States and Exxon's largest in the country.

Other refiners along the channel affected by the shutdown included Valero Energy Corp's 205,000-bpd Houston refinery, LyondellBasell's 263,776-bpd Houston refinery, Chevron Corp's 112,229-bpd Pasadena, Texas, refinery and Royal Dutch Shell Plc's 340,000-bpd Deer Park, Texas, refinery.

Shell and LyondellBasell said operations were not affected. Chevron declined to comment.

All of the refineries are able to ship motor fuels by pipeline, and most have enough crude on hand to operate for several days. J.J. Plunkett, port agent for the Houston Pilots Association, whose members guide ships in and out of the channel, said delays caused by the protest could be cleared within a day.

The channel was closed from Light 102A to Light 104, the Coast Guard said. Ship traffic to Texas City, Texas, where two refineries and several chemical plants are located, was not affected by the closure.

Police have arrested the Greenpeace climate protesters who closed part of a key oil export waterway for 18 hours by tying themselves to a bridge and dangling over the water.

Police have arrested the Greenpeace climate protesters who closed part of a key oil export waterway for 18 hours by tying themselves to a bridge and dangling over the water. The closure of one portion of the Houston Ship Channel, which stretches 53 miles (85 km) from its entrance in the Gulf of Mexico to the Port of Houston, blocked tanker ship traffic to and from five major oil refineries as well as chemical and oil-export terminals. Twelve people were taken into police custody shortly after 5pm, Thursday, according to spokesmen for Greenpeace and the Harris County Sheriff's office. The other 11 who were dangling by ropes and attached to one another were arrested late on Thursday and early Friday, police said. Sheriff's deputies rappelled down to the 11, cut the ropes tying them to one another and lowered each individually to police boats, spokesman Jason Spencer said. The protesters timed the event to coincide with the nationally televised debate in Houston by 10 Democratic White House contenders, one member said. Mike Herbert, 36, a protester reached by phone while he dangled about 100 feet from the bridge, said the group wanted to "force the hand of the political hopefuls to address the elephant in the room: climate change." The east Texas native who now lives in Maryland said members of the group were experienced climbers and had planned to continue the protest until Friday morning. They risked arrest because political leaders "aren't taking climate change seriously," he said. Greenpeace spokesman Ryan Schleeter said that the protesters did not resist arrest and were prepared to face whatever charges were be leveled. "We'll know more about the charges in the morning," Schleeter said. "Although they were prepared to stay for 24 hours, we feel that we have achieved our goal and sent a powerful message." He said that now is the time for lawmakers to take climate change seriously. A sheriff's representative was not available early Friday to comment on charges that the protesters face. Briscoe Cain, a Texas state lawmaker whose district includes part of the ship channel, said the protesters would be the first to be charged under a recently enacted state law that makes disrupting critical infrastructure a crime. Federal prosecutor Ryan Patrick earlier tweeted that his office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation were working with local police. His office did not respond to requests for comment. Two vessel arrivals and seven departures were disrupted by the protests at mid-afternoon on Thursday, said Steven Nerheim, director of the Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service for Houston-Galveston. The service normally sees 65 ships and 378 towing vessels per day. The area affected by the closing is near Exxon Mobil Corp's 560,500-barrel-per-day refinery in Baytown, which is 26 miles (42 km) east of Houston. Operations were normal at the plant on Thursday, said Exxon spokesman Jeremy Eikenberry. The refinery is the fourth-largest in the United States and Exxon's largest in the country. Other refiners along the channel affected by the shutdown included Valero Energy Corp's 205,000-bpd Houston refinery, LyondellBasell's 263,776-bpd Houston refinery, Chevron Corp's 112,229-bpd Pasadena, Texas, refinery and Royal Dutch Shell Plc's 340,000-bpd Deer Park, Texas, refinery. Shell and LyondellBasell said operations were not affected. Chevron declined to comment. All of the refineries are able to ship motor fuels by pipeline, and most have enough crude on hand to operate for several days. J.J. Plunkett, port agent for the Houston Pilots Association, whose members guide ships in and out of the channel, said delays caused by the protest could be cleared within a day. The channel was closed from Light 102A to Light 104, the Coast Guard said. Ship traffic to Texas City, Texas, where two refineries and several chemical plants are located, was not affected by the closure.

Climate protesters arrested at Texas port during US presidential debate

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