Biden urges Americans to be safe during holiday
"I believe you always deserve to hear the truth from your president. We have to slow the growth of this virus. We owe it to the doctors and the nurses and the frontline workers," Biden said.
He urged people to forgo big family gatherings, wear protective masks and maintain social distancing.
"I know we can and we will beat this virus," Biden added, acknowledging that Americans are feeling pandemic fatigue. "Life is going to return to normal. I promise you. This will happen. This will not last forever."
The Democratic former vice president has vowed to make tackling COVID-19 a top priority after taking office on Jan. 20, having accused Trump during the campaign of panicking and surrendering in the face of a public health crisis.
Since winning the Nov. 3 election, Biden has offered a message of national healing and reconciliation after Trump's tumultuous term while the Republican president still refuses to concede and falsely claims the election was stolen.
Public health officials have urged Americans to stay at home for Thursday's holiday and avoid large gatherings that could spread the virus.
Biden said he planned to spend Thanksgiving with his wife, Jill, and their daughter and son-in-law.
