Biden’s schedule does not include Dem debate

Vice President Biden apparently will not make a surprise appearance at the first Democratic presidential debate on Tuesday in Las Vegas.

Biden’s public schedule shows him attending meetings at the White House.

{mosads}While the vice president has not been expected to participate in the debate, many political observers have suggested the days surrounding contest are an opportune time for Biden to jump into the race.

But Biden has given few hints as to when he will announce his decision.

Journalists from national news outlets flocked to Biden’s hometown of Wilmington, Del., where he was spending time with family over the long weekend, anticipating a possible announcement. But none came.

CNN, which is airing the debate, has held out hope that Biden will attend. It crafted its debate rules to allow Biden to participate if he accepts an invitation as late as Tuesday.

The network even brought an extra podium to accommodate Biden in case he decides to show up.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the front-runner, will stand between Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley on the debate stage. Standing on the outer edges will be former Sen. Jim Webb (Va.) and former Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee.