Democratic Debate: Joe Biden criticized for race record

Democratic white house front-runner Joe Biden has come under fierce attack for his record on race in a televised debate with nine rivals.

Senator Kamala Harris assailed him for touting his past work with bigoted senators and having once opposed a policy to foster diversity in schools.

He said she had mischaracterised his position, insisting he had entered politics to champion civil rights.

The candidates are vying to take on republican president Donald Trump.

Fireworks also flew in the first debate with 10 other democrats on Wednesday.