The Squiz 

US President Joe Biden’s widely panned performance in Friday’s presidential election debate against his predecessor/Republican challenger Donald Trump, has his own side considering a replacement. Time magazine captured the panic of many Democrats after the 90-minute debate in which Biden stumbled, often losing track of what he was saying. The 81yo leader acknowledged his shortcomings at a rally the next day saying, “I know I’m not a young man … I don’t debate as well as I used to”. But he also dug in, fired up from the criticism saying, “When you get knocked down, you get back up”.

Crikey, so what now?

Well, the Democrats haven’t yet named Biden as their nominee – that’s set to happen at the Democratic National Convention in 8 weeks’ time, but they could force him out if another candidate steps up… Vice President Kamala Harris, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer have all been floated, but given the primary elections held around America backed Biden, it’s a tricky one. Biden’s biggest supporters still back him, including former President Barack Obama, who tweeted: “Bad debate nights happen. Trust me, I know”. Meanwhile, Trump is on a high with a CNN poll showing 67% of voters thought he won the debate as the 78yo labelled Biden’s performance “grossly incompetent” and a “trainwreck”. 

Isn’t there another election today?

Yep, hold onto your beret… Voters in France have gone to the polls overnight in what could prove to be a historic election with right-wingers closer to power than at any other time in recent history. Polls show the National Rally (RN) party is well ahead following their successful run in the European parliamentary elections, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to call the snap election. If RN manages to secure a majority in the lower house – which would make 28yo Jordan Bardella the new prime minister – Macron will have a tough time of it because the pair do not gel politically. Like, at all… Depending on the results, which will be coming through this morning, there could be a run-off vote next Sunday.

*Check out this Squiz Shortcut for more on the French election and what it means for Europe.