Clinton weighs in

[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/10/02/art.clinton.in.ap.jpg caption="Senator Hillary Clinton issued a statement praising Biden's performance."]

(CNN) - Hillary Clinton issued a statement shortly after the debate praising Joe Biden's performance:

“Tonight's debate underscored the stark choice American families face in this election," she said. “I've known Senator Biden a long time – as Americans saw tonight, he is a strong, passionate and experienced leader. Like Barack Obama, Joe Biden understands both the economic stresses here at home and the strategic challenges in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world.

“We saw yet again that Senator McCain and Sarah Palin will offer only more of the same failed policies of the Bush Administration. America's hardworking Middle Class families deserve better.”