President Biden has pointed the finger at former President Trump for his poor performance in their recent debate, claiming that Trump's relentless interruptions threw him off-guard. Despite concerns about his age and mental acuity, Biden remains adamant about his re-election bid, dismissing any doubts about his fitness to serve.
President Biden has attributed his disastrous performance in last week's debate with former President Trump to Trump's persistent "shouting" and distractions. During a high-stakes interview with ABC News on Friday, Biden acknowledged having a "bad night" but insisted that Trump's aggressive behavior contributed to his struggles.
"I was having a bad night when I realized that even when I was answering a question, even when they turned his mic off, he was still shouting, and I ... I let it distract me," Biden said. "I'm not blaming it on that. But I realized that I just wasn't in control."
Biden Blames Trump's 'Shouting' for Debate Debacle, Declares Himself 'Most Qualified'
Despite his admission of fault, Biden also shifted some blame to Trump, suggesting that his opponent's tactics were unfair. "I think the most charitable thing you can say about it is it's way too little, too late," Democratic strategist Julian Epstein said of Biden's performance. "The president looks frail. He looks foggy. He looks weak. He looks like he is using every last ounce of energy that he may have to sort of barely get through."
Biden's explanation comes amid growing concerns about his mental fitness and viability as a candidate. Some Democrats have expressed doubts, pointing to his age and recent gaffes as evidence of declining capabilities. However, Biden has dismissed these concerns, stating, "I wouldn't be running if I didn't think I did."
Biden Blames Trump's 'Shouting' for Debate Debacle, Declares Himself 'Most Qualified'
"Look, I have a cognitive test every single day. Every day I have a test. Everything I do," Biden said. "You know, not only am I campaigning, I'm running the world. And that's not — it sounds like hyperbole. But we are the essential nation in the world."
When pressed further about the possibility of taking a cognitive test and making the results public, Biden responded, "I've already done it," but did not provide any details.
Biden Blames Trump's 'Shouting' for Debate Debacle, Declares Himself 'Most Qualified'
Biden's allies have defended his performance, arguing that he overcame a cold and a hoarse voice to engage in a spirited debate. They maintain that Biden's track record and experience in government make him the most qualified candidate for the position.
On the other hand, critics have raised concerns about Biden's age and the potential for cognitive decline. They cite inconsistencies in his speech, rambling answers, and episodes of confusion as evidence of a possible decline in mental sharpness.
Biden Blames Trump's 'Shouting' for Debate Debacle, Declares Himself 'Most Qualified'
As the presidential race heats up, the debate over Biden's fitness and electability will likely continue. The onus is on Biden to demonstrate that he possesses the mental acuity and stamina to lead the nation for another four years.
In addition to his comments on the debate, Biden also addressed questions about his recent poll numbers, which show him trailing Trump. Biden expressed confidence in his ability to win, stating, "I don't think anybody is more qualified to be president or win this race than me."
However, Biden's response to poll numbers that show him behind in the popular vote was evasive and seemingly dismissive. When informed of the deficit, Biden replied, "I don't buy that." He also acknowledged a significant lag in the CBS and NBC polls but downplayed their significance.
Biden's insistence that he is "most qualified" to be president and his confidence in winning the election despite trailing in polls may raise further concerns about his ability to accurately assess his own standing and the political landscape.
