Democrats in alarm over Biden's health condition
In the final years of his presidency, concerns over Joe Biden's health and fitness for office have been raised in a newly published book. "Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again" claims that Biden's inner circle has been aware of his deteriorating mental and physical capabilities but chose to shield him from public scrutiny.
Authors Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson report that Biden, during his second term, experienced moments of confusion and memory loss, often forgetting the names of his closest advisers and aides. The book provides an intimate look into the reactions of Democratic lawmakers, White House staff, cabinet members, and party donors, who were reportedly shocked by Biden's decline.
The book sheds light on the fateful decision to embark on a re-election campaign, with few attempting to dissuade him from continuing in office. The authors argue that the campaign was justified out of self-interest and fear of another term from Donald Trump.
During his only televised debate in 2024, Biden's performance raised alarm among many observers. The book suggests that this was not an isolated incident but a reflection of Biden's declining health over several years.
The new publication, based on more than 200 interviews, primarily with Democratic insiders, was released on Tuesday.
Biden's age and health have recently become topical, following the announcement that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. Vice President JD Vance has fueled the debate, questioning whether Biden, who is now 81, was able to fulfill the duties of his office effectively.
Despite calls for transparency, a Biden spokesperson has criticized the book, claiming it offers no evidence that national security was threatened or that the president was unable to perform his job.
Concerns about Biden's health were apparent as early as the 2020 campaign, with some finding his performance in recorded Zoom calls inconsistent and unconvincing. The book claims that Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, and other Democratic figures had similar concerns but chose to remain silent.
"He was a different person... like watching a grandfather who shouldn't be driving," a Democrat is quoted as saying about Biden during the campaign. "I didn't think he could be president."
Besides struggles with memory, the book also points to personal stressors, such as legal issues surrounding his son Hunter, as factors contributing to Biden's decline.
In closed-door meetings and fundraising events, Democrats reportedly expressed their concerns about Biden's condition. However, they ultimately gave him the benefit of the doubt, believing in his dedication to the country's wellbeing.
The book highlights that Biden's close advisors, including his wife, son, and long-term advisors, had placed unwavering loyalty to the president above all else. This 'Politburo' is said to have shielded Biden from negative information and stifled dissent within the party.
While the details presented in the book are controversial, it raises questions about the secrets behind the scenes and the true state of Biden's health during his time in office.
- The US presidential election of 2024 is shaping up to be a significant event, given the concerns raised about Joe Biden's health and fitness for office, as reported in the book "Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again."
- The book delves into Joe Biden's alleged deteriorating mental and physical capabilities, citing instances of memory loss and confusion, which have been a point of concern even among his closest advisers and aides.
- The book suggests that Biden's age, health issues, and personal stressors, such as legal issues surrounding his son Hunter, could have contributed to his decline over several years.
- The ongoing debate about Biden's ability to fulfill the duties of his office effectively is also raising questions about mental health, aging, and neurological disorders, particularly in the context of politics and general news.
