President Joe Biden seems to have heightened concerns regarding his capability to hold office while attempting to reassure prominent members of the Democratic party.
In a gathering with Democratic governors, Biden made a remark about being uncertain if he may have suffered brain damage. Nevertheless, the statements regarding his well-being bordered on being uncomfortably close to reality.
In response to a question from Hawaii’s Democrat Governor Josh Green, Biden reportedly said, “I’m fine — I don’t know about my brain, though.”
Throughout his political career, Biden has been recognized for his use of self-deprecating humor. Despite this, the most recent joke may not be enough to calm the nerves of Democrats who are worried about Biden’s chances of re-election after his poor performance in the debate last week. Biden’s campaign manager, Jen O’Malley Dillon, clarified that Biden was joking and then added, “All kidding aside.”
However, according to the New York Times, at least one governor present at the meeting was confused by Biden’s remark. Governor Green later defended Biden on CNN and advised Democrats to relax. As a doctor, Green pointed out that Biden’s ability to crack jokes is evidence that he is not experiencing cognitive decline, which is not exactly a strong vote of confidence in his fitness.
“Biden was just kidding with us and frankly, and I’m saying this as a physician, it is a significant ability to cognitively still be able to make a self-deprecating joke,” Green said.
“So if anything, people do need to lighten up.”
Biden has not taken significant steps to alleviate concerns about his capability. He informed the governors on Wednesday that he simply needs more rest and less work. He mentioned that he would no longer plan events after 8 p.m. The Democratic party is currently divided on the path forward for the presidency and the upcoming election. There is growing apprehension that Biden’s actions could negatively impact the party’s performance in the election.
Despite this, Biden has received considerable support from governors. However, Democratic members of Congress have shown less support. A few House Democrats have urged Biden to step down. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) has reportedly initiated efforts to remove Biden from office.
In response to the increasing pressure, Biden has shown defiance. When questioned about Senator Warner’s actions at a campaign rally in Wisconsin on Friday, Biden dismissed him as “the only one.” He also pledged to continue his fight during the event.
“They’re trying to push me out of the race,” he told a crowd.
“Well let me say this as clearly as I can: I’m staying in the race.”
“I’m not letting one 90-minute debate wipe out three and a half years of work,” he said.
