President Biden's marathon press conference was marked by a series of gaffes and questionable statements, sparking renewed concerns about his cognitive fitness to serve another four years in the Oval Office, even as his allies defended his performance.
President Biden's pivotal press conference on Thursday evening was a roller-coaster of gaffes, mental acuity questions, and defiant defenses of his record in office.
Held at the 2024 NATO Summit, the roughly 58-minute press conference saw Biden double down on his intention to remain in the presidential race while making several notable stumbles.
Biden's Press Conference: Gaffes and Concerns Highlight Cognitive Fitness Questions
One particular linguistic quirk that caught the attention of many was Biden's frequent use of the word "anyway," which he uttered at least nine times during the presser. The repetition sparked social media commentary and jokes, leading to a "Biden anyway drinking game" trend.
Biden's press conference comes amidst growing concerns about his mental fitness to serve as president, with 17 elected Democrats calling on him to bow out of the 2024 race.
Biden's Press Conference: Gaffes and Concerns Highlight Cognitive Fitness Questions
Representative Jim Himes (D-Conn.), the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, expressed concern that Biden's legacy as a great president is at risk if he continues to face the "horrors promised by Donald Trump."
Conservatives seized on Biden's gaffes during the press conference, criticizing his performance and questioning his ability to lead the nation. Fox News contributor Tammy Bruce labeled it "another disaster" and called out those advising Biden for allowing such self-humiliation.
Biden's Press Conference: Gaffes and Concerns Highlight Cognitive Fitness Questions
However, Biden's allies, including Democratic strategist Joel Rubin and former White House communications director Kate Bedingfield, hailed his performance as "strong" and praised his articulation of foreign and domestic policy issues.
During the press conference, Biden addressed concerns about his mental acuity head-on, defending his track record in office and citing his ability to pass legislation and create jobs.
Biden's Press Conference: Gaffes and Concerns Highlight Cognitive Fitness Questions
"If I slow down, I can't get the job done. That's a sign that I shouldn't be doing it. But there's no indication of that yet ... none," he asserted.
Biden also faced questions about his choice of running mate, Vice President Kamala Harris, and her potential to serve as president. He affirmed his belief in Harris's qualifications and her ability to handle the job.
Biden's press conference was held in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of NATO, a defensive military alliance that he is hosting world leaders for this week.
