Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: US President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, shortly after indicating he might reconsider his reelection bid if diagnosed with a serious medical condition. The 81-year-old Democrat, cutting short a campaign trip to Las Vegas, assured reporters he felt good despite the diagnosis.
Biden, showing a thumbs up from his limousine, mentioned he was suffering from a runny nose, cough, and “general malaise.” He is currently taking COVID-19 medication and will isolate at his beach house in Rehoboth, Delaware.
The diagnosis came soon after an interview, recorded on Tuesday, where Biden stated he could step aside as a presidential candidate “if I had some medical condition that emerged.” This development adds to the dramatic turn of events in the already intense White House race, where his rival, Donald Trump, recently survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally.
Biden’s health has been under scrutiny since a problematic debate against Trump nearly three weeks ago, where his performance raised concerns about his age. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed Biden’s positive test following an event targeting Latino voters in Las Vegas.
“He is vaccinated and boosted and experiencing mild symptoms. He will return to Delaware to self-isolate and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during this time,” Jean-Pierre stated.
According to Biden’s doctor, he is experiencing a runny nose, a “non-productive cough,” and “general malaise.” Biden has received the COVID drug Paxlovid and has already taken his first dose. His vital signs remain stable, with normal respiratory rate, temperature, and pulse oximetry levels.
Biden’s positive test result has intensified discussions about his health and capability to continue his presidential bid. During his trip to Las Vegas, Biden reiterated he felt good despite his condition. “Good,” he responded to the press, walking to Air Force One without a mask.
Janet Murguia, president of the Unidos union for Latino workers, informed the crowd about Biden’s diagnosis shortly before the White House announcement. “I was just on the phone with President Biden, and he shared his deep disappointment at not being able to join us this afternoon,” she said.
The controversy surrounding Biden’s health is escalating, with increasing calls from Democrats for him to step aside. Representative Adam Schiff of California, a top Democrat, urged Biden to “pass the torch,” expressing doubts about Biden’s ability to defeat Trump in November. Approximately 20 House Democrats and one senator have now called for Biden to leave the race.
While Biden maintains that Democratic voters support him, a recent poll by the Associated Press and NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed that nearly two-thirds of respondents want him to step aside, highlighting the growing concern about his age and health as the election approaches.
