Muscle memory and a fight to inspire: on the campaign trail with Biden

Veteran Democrat embraces a gruelling schedule in swing through Michigan and Georgia as he seeks to avoid joining ranks of one-term presidents

The fact is that this election, a lot is at stake," said Joe Biden, collar unbuttoned, mic in hand, watched by about 50 guests at tables dotted with small US flags at Mary Mac's Tea Room in downtown Atlanta. It's not about me. It's about the alternative as well."

The off-the-cuff remark was telling. After more than half a century in national politics, Joe Biden's final campaign is defined not by his record but his opponent: Donald Trump. The outcome of November's presidential election will decide whether he is remembered by history as the man who saved democracy twice - or as a mere interregnum in the onward march of Trumpism.