Joe Biden secured commanding victories in Michigan and two other states on Tuesday, cementing his position as a frontrunner in the Democratic presidential race.
This puts the former vice president as a challenger for Republican President Donald Trump in the November 3 election.
The next big election milestone begins in a week when 577 delegates are up for grabs.
Speaking in Philadelphia, Biden thanked Sanders and his supporters for their energy and passion. "We share a common goal and together we are going to defeat Donald Trump," he added.
"Winning means uniting America. Not sowing more division and anger."
A candidate needs the support of 1,991 delegates to secure the nomination.


Former Cuban President Raul Castro charged with murder in US
Tankers exit Hormuz as Trump, Vance talk up Iran deal prospects
WHO says 139 suspected Ebola deaths in Congo outbreak, numbers expected to rise
China's Xi, Russia's Putin praise ties but see no energy headway at Beijing talks
Russian attacks kill two in Ukraine; Kyiv drones strike central Russia
