In the aftermath of the special counsel report's release, House Democrats rallied behind President Joe Biden at their annual retreat. However, concerns about Biden's age and mental acuity resurfaced, posing a potential challenge for his reelection bid. The special counsel's report, whether seen as brutally honest or a partisan move, targeted a consistent vulnerability for Biden – his age, now at 81. Some Democrats worry that the public perception of Biden's decline could overshadow policy achievements and lead undecided voters to consider an alternative, even if it aligns with a far-right agenda.
Within the White House and Biden's campaign, there is ongoing tension. Top aides advocate for a strategy that avoids constant public appearances to prevent embarrassing moments, while others argue that this inadvertently reinforces the image of a president stumbling through his days. Biden's delivery is criticized as "stilted," creating a protective but anxiety-inducing bubble around him.
Despite internal debates on staging speeches and media exposure, the Biden team recognizes the need to showcase the president's sharpness and vigor behind the scenes. Informal campaign stops and unscripted moments aim to emphasize Biden's retail politics prowess and break through the media noise. However, each unscripted moment carries the risk of a slip, such as recent instances where Biden confused world leaders' names.
Biden's aides dismiss outside advice on age, including suggestions about makeup, lighting, or changing event logistics. Democratic operatives offer varying advice, from addressing arthritis explanations to accepting seated event starts. Critics express frustration over Biden's physical activities, arguing that, at a critical time for democracy, any faltering by the president could lead to embarrassing moments.
Biden's supporters counter outside critiques, pointing out that voters did not prioritize his gaffes in the last campaign. They argue that Biden's age becomes a secondary concern when compared to his policy stances on issues like abortion, Social Security, prescription drug costs, and gun violence.
Amidst the ongoing debate, the Biden campaign emphasizes accomplishments and portrays Republican attacks on the president's age as a recurring theme since 2019. White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates points to Biden's leadership on relevant issues, such as a bipartisan border security deal, to undercut concerns about age. Despite the report's impact, Biden vehemently defends his memory and competence, asserting that he is a well-meaning, elderly man who has effectively led the country.
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