President Joe Biden, in his recent interview with ABC News’ George Stephanopoulos, defended his decision to continue his reelection bid despite concerns about his mental and physical state. He acknowledged the criticisms following the June 27 debate but characterized it as simply having had a “bad night.”
“It was a bad episode, no indication of any serious condition,” Biden said. “I was exhausted. I didn’t listen to my instincts in terms of preparing and it was a bad night.”
Biden refused to answer a question about what he would do if allies and friends in Congress urged him to leave the presidential campaign.
“I’m not going to answer that question. It’s not going to happen,” Biden said.
President Biden has dismissed concerns raised by members of Congress and Democratic governors regarding his ability to continue as the presumptive nominee, despite his struggles during the first presidential debate.
Joe Biden
He brushed aside plans by Virginia Senator Mark Warner to convene Democratic senators to discuss the future of his campaign.
“Mark is a good man,” Biden said, before incorrectly claiming Warner “tried to get the nomination” for president — Warner in 2006 said he would not make a bid. “Mark and I have a different perspective. I respect him.”
During the interview with George Stephanopoulos, Biden was pressed on whether he believes he has the mental and physical stamina to serve another four years as president, and whether he is being honest with himself about his age.
“I believe so,” Biden said. “I wouldn’t be running if I didn’t think I did. Look, I’m running again because I think I understand best what has to be done to take this nation to a completely new level.”
Biden repeatedly declined to commit to taking a cognitive exam, suggesting that his schedule and daily work load are evidence enough he’s up to the task of being president.
“I have a cognitive test every single day. Every day I have that test, everything I do,” Biden said. “You know, not only am I campaigning, I’m running the world.”
Biden emphasized that there are 125 days remaining in the campaign and encouraged people to observe his performance in the coming months to assess whether he is fit for reelection to the highest office in the government.
