The president’s press conference on Thursday was hailed as one of the most important in his political life - make or break for his chances of re-election. After a disastrous debate performance two weeks ago, Democrats have been voicing concerns about Biden’s ability to win against Donald Trump in November. We’ll find out if he managed to hold off the rebels trying to oust him from the White House.

Justin and Sarah also spoke to a friend of the President, Steve Israel, former congressman and former chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. He explains why Jill Biden has such a big influence on her husband, and gives us his intel from inside the party. Does he think the President can still win?

HOSTS: • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Sarah Smith, North America Editor • Marianna Spring, Disinformation & Social Media Correspondent • Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent

GUEST: Steve Israel, former Democrat congressman and former chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee

GET IN TOUCH: • Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB • Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480 • Email Americast@bbc.co.uk • Or use #Americast

US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s new BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155

This episode was made by Purvee Pattni and George Dabby with Rufus Gray, Catherine Fusillo and Claire Betzer. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.