Biden formally clinches US Democratic nomination

WASHINGTON: Former Vice President Joe Biden formally clinched the Democratic presidential nomination on Friday, setting the stage for a challenge to President Donald Trump in the November election.

Us media projected that Biden passed the 1,991 delegates he needs to be chosen as the nominee at the party’s national convention, with contests still to come in eight states and three US territories.

Biden won the delegates after seven states and the District of Columbia held presidential primaries on Tuesday. 

“Folks, tonight we secured the 1,991 delegates needed to win the Democratic nomination. I’m going to spend every day fighting to earn your vote so that, together, we can win the battle for the soul of this nation,” Biden said in a statement on Twitter.

Folks, tonight we secured the 1,991 delegates needed to win the Democratic nomination. I’m going to spend every day fighting to earn your vote so that, together, we can win the battle for the soul of this nation. https://t.co/sl3wFGabpg

— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) June 6, 2020

Biden issued a statement on winning a majority of delegates in the Democratic presidential primary, saying that it is a difficult time in America’s history and Donald Trump’s divisive politics is no answer.

He said the “country is crying out for leadership. Leadership that can unite us. Leadership that can bring us together.” He added thet they need an economy that works for everyone, and jobs that bring dignity, equal justice and equal opportunities for every American. “We need a president who cares about helping us heal.”

“It was an honor to compete alongside one of the most talented groups of candidates the Democratic party has ever fielded — and I am proud to say that we are going into this general election a united party,” Biden said in a statement.

“I am going to spend every day between now and November 3rd fighting to earn the votes of Americans all across this great country so that, together, we can win the battle for the soul of this nation, and make sure that as we rebuild our economy, everyone comes along,” he said.