In a candid interview with ABC News’ George Stephanopoulos, President Joe Biden addressed concerns over his mental acuity following a contentious debate with former President Donald Trump. Biden acknowledged the debate as a “bad episode” but firmly rebuffed suggestions about his age affecting his ability to lead.
Stephanopoulos pressed Biden during the 22-minute interview on whether his recent lapses indicate a decline in mental fitness. Biden, however, emphasized his accomplishments and ongoing capabilities. “Can I run the 100 in 10 flat? No. But I’m still in good shape,” Biden retorted when asked about frailty.
This interview marks Biden’s first television appearance since the June 27 debate, a critical moment prompting reassessment from both the White House and campaign strategists. Concerns over Biden’s fitness have spurred discussions about his potential to endure another term, given his age.
Addressing these concerns, Stephanopoulos queried Biden on his readiness for a second term, noting Biden would be 86 by its conclusion. “I believe so. I’m running because I believe I understand best what needs to be done,” Biden affirmed, underscoring his confidence in continuing his presidential duties effectively.
When asked about the possibility of stepping down if convinced he couldn’t defeat Trump, Biden light-heartedly remarked, “It depends on if the Lord Almighty comes down and tells me that, I might do that.”
Throughout the interview, Biden dismissed calls for an independent medical evaluation, highlighting his determination to continue without such assessments.
Despite recent polling showing Trump ahead in key states, Biden remains resolute. “I’m not letting one 90-minute debate wipe out three and a half years of work. I’m staying in the race, and I will beat Donald Trump,” Biden asserted.
General Mark Milley, retired, also offered his perspective, dismissing worries about Biden’s age after speaking with him regularly. “He’s sound, alert, engaged, and takes his job very seriously,” Milley affirmed, echoing Biden’s own confidence in his ability to lead.
The interview underscores ongoing debates over Biden’s presidential fitness, with the upcoming election promising to hinge on issues beyond age and mental acuity.
