Some Americans completely disagree.
Following a comprehensive physical examination conducted on Wednesday, President Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, affirmed that the President remains fully capable of fulfilling his duties without any health-related hindrances. The examination, closely monitored due to concerns regarding Biden’s age amidst his reelection campaign, concluded that there are no new health issues of concern.
Dr. O’Connor’s memo assured that President Biden, aged 81, exhibits overall good health, with no significant deviations from his previous examination in February 2023. While Biden reported increased discomfort in his left hip, the examination detected only mild arthritic changes.
This latest assessment from the White House is expected to deflect apprehensions about Biden’s age and fitness for office, particularly as he vies for another term. Concerns regarding his age, often highlighted by his verbal slips and physical demeanor, have been exploited by opponents, with polling data reflecting skepticism from both Democrats and Republicans. A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll revealed that a staggering 86 percent of Americans consider Biden too old for office, citing concerns about his memory and cognitive abilities.
In contrast, Biden’s potential opponent, former President Trump, aged 77, has faced similar scrutiny over his fitness for office. Despite his own verbal missteps, Trump has dismissed concerns about Biden’s age, instead labeling him as “incompetent.”
Both candidates have received assessments of their health from their respective physicians. Trump’s report, released last November, claimed he was in “excellent health,” though it lacked detailed specifics. Biden, meanwhile, emphasized in a recent interview that the focus should not solely be on age but rather on the freshness of ideas and cognitive sharpness, subtly addressing concerns about his opponent’s mental acuity.
As the election cycle progresses, discussions around age and fitness for office are likely to remain prominent, influencing voter perceptions and campaign strategies on both sides of the political spectrum.