Joe Biden said that “everything” is at stake in the upcoming midterm elections, where Democrats will be looking to take back control of Congress from the Republicans.

“We're in a fight for the soul of America,” said the former US vice president. “It’s about time we restored dignity to work, it’s about time we start talking to each other like we’re civilised, and deal with one another with respect. That’s what this is about,” Mr Biden added in what was a likely comment on President Donald Trump's more combative style.

As for a more personal battle with Mr Trump, Mr Biden has said that he would decide whether he will run for president in 2020 by January.

When asked on Monday by a MSNBC reporter whether his presence at the labour day parade in Pittsburgh was political, Mr Biden said it had nothing to do with his “political future”.

“I’ve known these guys my whole life,” he said. “I’d go anywhere with these guys. These are the guys that brought me to the dance, as the saying goes. It’s called loyalty.”

Mr Biden, a native of Scranton, Pennsylvania, has long championed support for labour unions and workers’ rights.

When asked what his advice would be to Democrats as Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Brett Kavanaugh are set to begin 4 September, Mr Biden said “stay in the room”.

Joe Biden pays tribute to John McCain in emotional eulogy

The Trump administration has received criticism after the White House and the Justice Department have determined to withhold more than 100,000 documents of Mr Kavanaugh’s record during his time as staff secretary to former President George W. Bush.

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Senate Democrats have filed several Freedom of Information Requests (FOIR) for records concerning the Supreme Court nominee’s time at the White House.