Ashley Biden, the 43-year-old daughter of President Joe Biden, took the stage Monday night during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago to introduce her father ahead of one of his significant speeches as president and public servant.
In her heartfelt address, Ashley, a social worker in Philadelphia, portrayed her father not only as one of history’s “most consequential leaders,” but also as a devoted “girl dad.” She shared fond memories of how he always encouraged her to pursue her dreams.
“He told me I could be anything and I could do anything,” Ashley recounted. She emphasized his respect for women, recalling how he listened to his mother, believed in his sister, and supported her mother’s career. “Dad, you always tell us, but we don’t tell you enough that you are the love of our lives and the life of our love.”
During the event, President Biden embraced Ashley before his speech. She reminisced about her eighth birthday when he took the Amtrak train from Washington, D.C., to Delaware just to celebrate with her. Ashley also reflected on her wedding reception in her parents’ backyard over a decade ago, noting how emotional her father was during the occasion.
“Dad, you are still my best friend,” she said, highlighting the deep bond they share.
Ashley spoke about the profound loss the family experienced with the death of her brother, Beau Biden, from brain cancer in 2015. She conveyed how her father has supported them through their grief, expressing her belief that Beau was present with them that night.
The President has faced the loss of two of his children, alongside a tragic accident that claimed the lives of his first wife and daughter in 1972. Ashley urged the audience to rally together in support of their shared vision, asking them to “work harder than ever before in your life.”
After delivering her emotional speech, President Biden wiped away tears, visibly moved by his daughter’s words, and praised her as “incredible.”
Ashley has been a prominent presence during her brother Hunter’s recent legal challenges, including his trial on federal gun charges in Wilmington, Delaware. Hunter, who was convicted in June, made an appearance with his children at the conclusion of President Biden’s speech.