Concerns Mount Over President Biden’s Cognitive Fitness as He Seeks Re-Election
WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden’s conduct behind closed doors, in the Oval Office, on Air Force One, and in meetings worldwide is characterized in dual terms by those who regularly witness him in action. He is often sharp and focused but also has moments, particularly later in the evening, when his thoughts seem jumbled, and he trails off mid-sentence or appears confused. These instances, coupled with his occasional difficulty grasping finer policy details and forgetting names, have raised questions about his fitness for another term.
At 81 years old and seeking another four years in the White House, Biden’s age has become a focal point following his lackluster debate performance against Republican Donald Trump on June 27. During the debate, Biden appeared pale, gave nonsensical answers, stared blankly, and lost his train of thought, alarming Democrats and financial backers alike. This performance seemed markedly worse than the almost routine moments when he’s less sharp, leading to increased concerns about his ability to effectively govern.
“We understand the concerns. We get it,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said this week, emphasizing that Biden has no intention of stepping away from the campaign. “The president is clear-eyed and he is staying in the race.”
Signs of Biden’s age have been noted in recent weeks, including a constrained itinerary during a visit to France and a subdued demeanor at a high-profile Hollywood fundraiser. Interviews with two dozen people who have spent time with the president privately reveal a pattern: Biden can be commanding and energetic one day and halting and forgetful the next.
Following his debate blunder, Biden rebounded at a North Carolina rally, delivering a forceful and confident speech. “I give you my word as a Biden. I would not be running again if I didn’t believe with all my heart and soul I can do this job,” he told supporters. Yet, the president’s variable performances continue to fuel public concern about his cognitive abilities.
An August 2023 poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 77% of U.S. adults believe Biden is too old to be effective for another four years. This sentiment is shared by 89% of Republicans and 69% of Democrats. One insider noted visible signs of aging over the past year that the president’s team has not fully addressed, with the debate performance accelerating these concerns.
In response to these issues, Biden’s aides have made adjustments, such as using a shorter staircase to board Air Force One and incorporating more rest periods into his schedule. The president’s public interactions have been limited, particularly with journalists, under a directive from top adviser Anita Dunn. Despite these efforts, Biden’s allies worry that another misstep could reignite voter concerns.
To counteract these perceptions, the White House announced a public blitz, including an interview with ABC’s George Stephanopoulos and increased public appearances. However, Biden’s family has encouraged him to stay in the race, prioritizing the need to keep Trump out of the White House.
Ultimately, Biden’s cognitive fitness remains a topic of debate. Aging researcher S. Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois at Chicago emphasized the need for more transparency from Biden’s personal physician to address public concerns definitively.
While Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, deemed him fit for duty following a checkup in February, the lack of a specific cognitive test has left questions unanswered. As the 2024 campaign intensifies, Biden’s ability to reassure the public and maintain his cognitive health will be critical to his bid for re-election.
