Rep. Eric Swalwell of California had a simple message for former Vice President Joe Biden during Thursday's debate: It's time to pass the torch.

Swalwell, 38, targeted Biden, 76, reminding him of a moment from nearly three decades ago when Biden called for a new generation to lead the nation.

"I was 6-years-old when a presidential candidate came to the California Democratic Convention and said it's time to pass the torch to a new generation of Americans," Swalwell said. "That candidate was then-Sen. Joe Biden."

"Joe Biden was right when he said it was time to pass the torch to a new generation of Americans 32-years-ago," he continued. "He's still right today."

Biden, who has ran for president two other times, is currently the frontrunner in polling. Swalwell challenged Biden saying that if new solutions are going to be made in the country, then it's time for younger lawmakers to make that change.

"If we're going to solve the issues of automation, pass the torch. If we're going to solve the issues of climate chaos, pass the torch," he continued. "If we're going to solve the issue of student loan debt, pass the torch. If we're going to end gun violence for families who are fearful of sending their kids to school, pass the torch."

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A smiling Biden responded: "I'm still holding on to that torch."

This wasn't his first swipe at Biden for the evening.

Swalwell prior to the debate called out Biden for his age.

“I don’t think we can nominate a candidate who has been in government for longer than 20 years," Swalwell told CNN.

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