Biden's address before leaving for Washington interrupted by tears

(Patria) - Newly elected US President Joe Biden gave an emotional speech during which he fought back tears speaking about his late son and thanking his home state of Delaware, ahead of his departure for Washington for Wednesday's inauguration.

"The only thing I regret is that he is not here," Biden said, speaking about his son Beau, the Attorney General who died of a brain tumor in 2015.

Biden fought back tears during the speech in Delaware, the state he represented as a senator for more than three decades.

"Forgive me for the emotions, but when I die, Delaware will be written on my heart," added the 78-year-old Biden in his farewell speech before leaving for Washington, where he will be sworn in as the 46th president.

Biden's inauguration is accompanied by security concerns after supporters of Donald Trump attacked the Capitol building earlier this month, so thousands of National Guard members have already been deployed in the capital. Trump said he would not attend the inauguration.