USA President: Biden Stands Firm Amid Calls for Independent Neurological Assessment
USA President: Declines Independent Cognitive Test, Cites Daily Presidential Duties as Proof of FitnessRejects Independent Cognitive Test Proposal
In a defiant stance, President Joe Biden on Friday declined to agree to an independent neurological assessment, despite concerns following his recent debate performance against former President Donald Trump. Speaking to ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos in his first interview since the debate, Biden reiterated his belief in his cognitive abilities and stated that only divine intervention could convince him he might lose to Trump.
Stephanopoulos provided multiple opportunities for the president to address the widespread concerns by asking if he would consider an independent cognitive or neurological examination. Biden, however, dismissed the idea, emphasizing that his daily responsibilities as president serve as a constant test of his mental fitness. “Look, I have a cognitive test every single day,” Biden stated, adding, “Every day, I have that test. Everything I do. You know, not only am I campaigning, but I’m running the world.”
When pressed about his self-awareness regarding his capabilities, USA President: Biden affirmed his confidence, saying, “Yes, I am, because George, the last thing I want to do is not be able to meet that.” He also mentioned that he has engaged in detailed discussions with Democratic leaders in Congress, who have expressed their support for his continued candidacy.
Despite some Democrats publicly calling for him to step aside, Biden remained resolute, dismissing the possibility of withdrawing from the race. “They’re not going to do that,” he told Stephanopoulos, referring to Democratic leaders. He mentioned his recent conversations with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Democratic governors, all of whom reportedly encouraged him to stay in the race.
Stephanopoulos further questioned Biden on whether he would reconsider if advised by friends and supporters that his continued candidacy could jeopardize the Democratic Party’s control of the House and Senate. Biden refused to entertain the scenario, asserting, “It’s not going to happen.”
Reflecting on his poor debate performance, Biden attributed it to a “bad episode” in which he was feeling unwell, rather than any serious condition. He explained that he was exhausted and did not prepare adequately, resulting in a “bad night.” Biden also mentioned that he had returned from a demanding European trip shortly before the debate and had been recovering from a severe cold.
The debate, watched by over 50 million Americans, saw Biden struggling to counter Trump’s arguments and even faltering when discussing his own administration’s policies. His performance raised concerns within the Democratic Party, prompting several House members to call for his withdrawal from the race. However, Biden addressed these concerns during a campaign rally in Madison, Wisconsin, reaffirming his commitment to remain the Democratic nominee. “I’m the nominee of the Democratic Party,” he declared, emphasizing that voters had chosen him for the role.
Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed her support for Biden in a recent interview, stating, “Look, Joe Biden is our nominee. We beat Trump once, and we’re going to beat him again, period.”
Adding to the political buzz, former President Trump‘s recent social media post about Project 2025, an initiative by the conservative think tank Heritage Foundation aimed at restructuring the federal government, sparked discussions online. The Biden campaign quickly responded with fact-checks on their social media channels, underscoring the ongoing political rivalry.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Biden’s unwavering stance and his commitment to his campaign continue to be a focal point of national attention.
