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Former Vice President Joe Biden makes stop in St. Pete on American Promise Tour

9 more stops added on book tour
Posted at 10:19 PM, Jun 04, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-04 23:20:11-04

ST> PETERSBURG, Fla. — Former Vice President Joe Biden extended his 30-city American Promise Tour adding 9 more stops, including one in St. Petersburg on Monday.

Biden spoke to a sold-out crowd at Mahaffey Theater in St. Pete.

“You can’t come out of there and not think he’s the most wonderful person around and capable of being a President that leads other people,” said Katie Geller, who attended Monday’s event. 

Our cameras were allowed to take video of the former Vice President, but we were asked not to record his speech. He was there promoting his book, published in 2017, entitled “Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship and Purpose.” 

It chronicles the most challenging year in Biden’s life— juggling his political career as his son, Beau, fought brain cancer. 

“Beau was his hero. He was an attorney general. He told him to smile. He said dad don’t be sad, smile that’s what I want you to do smile through this and he was courageous about it,” said Geller.

Many calling Biden’s speech inspirational. 

“Everything he’s gone through, yet he still stands up and has hope and respect for everybody,” said Harry Bellman who attended the event. 

Guests say Biden didn't answer when the crowd asked him if he’ll run in 2020 for president — but many say they would support him. 

 “Absolutely, I would do everything I can financially. I’d go door to door to help him. We need him,” said Bellman. 

Biden’s next stop will be on Tuesday in New Orleans.