Following the release of the special counsel report on Thursday, House Democrats rallied behind President Joe Biden, who seized the opportunity to make a compelling case for another term in office during their annual retreat. However, the report’s focus on the President’s age and mental sharpness has sparked a wave of concern and speculation among Democrats, according to sources who spoke to CNN.
Questions about Biden’s age and mental acuity have been a consistent concern since he first announced his intention to run for re-election. At 81, the President is visibly older, leading many to question his ability to effectively perform his duties. The special counsel report, whether viewed as an honest assessment or a partisan attack by a Trump appointee, has only amplified these concerns.
Despite the concerns, many Democrats and White House officials maintain that Biden is fully capable and in command. They argue that the public image of Biden does not reflect his behind-the-scenes sharpness and lucidity. However, the President’s reliance on prepared notecards and scripted questions during a recent event, even in front of a friendly audience, has raised eyebrows.
Inside the White House and among Biden’s reelection campaign staff, there is a constant tension. Some argue that the President should avoid constant public appearances to prevent potential gaffes, while others worry that this approach only reinforces the image of a struggling President.
Despite the concerns, many officials, aides, and others who have interacted with Biden privately insist that he is fully competent. They point to his command of issues and his ability to hold his own in negotiations as evidence of his acuity. However, the President’s occasional slips, such as confusing French President Emmanuel Macron for the late François Mitterrand, have not gone unnoticed.
In response to the concerns, Biden’s team is planning more informal campaign stops to showcase the President’s retail politics skills. They believe that seeing the President in action is the best way to combat questions about his competence.
However, the debate over Biden’s age and acuity is not just about optics. It also has implications for the future of American democracy. Some Democrats argue that at this critical juncture, the country cannot afford a faltering President. Others, however, dismiss these concerns as ageist and argue that Biden’s experience and wisdom are invaluable assets.
Despite the ongoing debate, Biden’s team remains defiant. They argue that the President’s age did not prevent him from winning the 2020 election and that it will not be a significant factor in the upcoming election. They believe that voters are more concerned about issues such as abortion rights, social security, and gun violence than the President’s age.
As the political chess game continues, one thing is clear: Biden’s age and acuity will remain a focal point in the run-up to the next election.