"America's never been perfect", Biden said in his Thanksgiving remarks, "but we've always tried to fulfill the aspiration of the Declaration of Independence."

"What should we give thanks for this season?", Biden asked, "Well, first, let's be thankful for democracy itself".

“For those who have lost a loved one", he added, "I know that this time of year can be particularly difficult. Believe me, I know. I remember the first Thanksgiving and the empty chair, the silence. It takes your breath away”