INDEPENDENCE - Experience and change are qualities often touted by presidential candidates. But these standards aren't sufficient for picking the nation's next president in U.S. Sen. Joe Biden's book.

"Experience is not enough. Judgment matters," Biden said. "It's about action."

The Democrat from Delaware, who is seeking the U.S. presidency, spoke Saturday morning at Bill's Pizza & Smokehouse in Independence. More than 100 people turned out for the caucus count-down event with Biden and the Buchanan County Democrats.

Biden, elected to the U.S. Senate in 1972, described the 2008 presidential race as the greatest opportunity to change the shape of the world since the presidency of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. And he said he has what the country is seeking.

"I think America is looking for a steady hand … some authenticity and some brains," Biden said.

In an hour-long speech, followed by a question-and-answer session, the senator addressed foreign policy and domestic issues.

After the event, Biden said, should he be elected, he would in his inaugural speech take a hard stance against torture and broaden its definition. In his second act as president, Biden said he would issue an executive order that the federal government buy only environmentally friendly vehicles and apply a green philosophy to its buildings.

In a recent poll by Lee Enterprises, Biden ranked fifth among Democratic contenders in Iowa, earning only 3 percent of the vote.

Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Schiff, stumping for Biden in Independence, told the audience he thinks affection for the senator is greater than what some polls suggest.

"Well if you like him and vote for him, then yeah, he's got a chance," said Schiff, who played a White House communications director on the "West Wing."

With the Jan. 3 Iowa caucus less than a week away, Biden implored prospective voters to consider which candidate can hit the ground running and be entrusted with day-to-day decisions. The next president will encounter a complicated and dangerous Pakistan and a subcontinent of India "bristling with nuclear weapons," Biden said.

"This is deadly serious. …This is not about if I were 15 years younger, if I were as cute as John Edwards," quipped Biden, 65, in reference to a fellow contender for the presidency.

Chuck Taylor, chairman of the Fayette County Democrats, endorses Biden because of his experience, forthrightness and plan for Iraq.

Jodi Grover, 25, of Rowley, remained undecided moments after Biden's presentation. She admires that Sen. Biden is specific but also believes U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton offers experience.

"He actually gives concrete examples," Grover said. "Not just pie in the sky."

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Contact Karen Heinselman at (319) 291-1581 or karen.heinselman@wcfcourier.com.