NAME — Joseph Robinette Biden Jr.

AGE-BIRTH DATE-LOCATION — 69; Nov. 20, 1942; Scranton, Pa.

EXPERIENCE — Vice president of the United States, 2009-present; U.S. Senate, 1973-2009; New Castle County Council, 1970-72; sought presidential nomination, 1988, 2008.

EDUCATION — Bachelor's degree, history and political science, University of Delaware, 1965; law degree, Syracuse University, 1968.

FAMILY — Married Neilia Hunter in 1966; three children, Beau, Hunter and Naomi. His wife and daughter Naomi died in a car crash in 1972. Married Jill Jacobs in 1977; one daughter, Ashley; five grandchildren.

QUOTE — "I believe this election will come down to character, conviction and vision. And it will not surprise you— I don't think it's even a close call."