President Biden fired back at critics with jokes and optimism during a Delaware appearance, dismissing claims of cognitive decline and providing updates on his cancer prognosis.
At a Glance
- Biden joked about his mental health, saying he could “beat the hell” out of Tapper and Thompson.
- The remarks followed the release of Original Sin, a book claiming Biden’s advisers hid signs of decline.
- Biden challenged critics who questioned his reelection bid, expressing confidence in his record.
- He gave a positive update on his recent cancer diagnosis, saying “the prognosis is good.”
- The president continues to perform official duties while defending his legacy and health.
Humor as Defense
In a Delaware gathering that mixed candor with comedic timing, President Joe Biden addressed criticism surrounding his mental fitness with a jab aimed at journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson.
“You can see that I’m mentally incompetent and I can’t walk, and I can beat the hell out of both of them,” Biden said, referring to the co-authors of Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again. The book alleges serious cognitive decline and accuses the administration of hiding Biden’s condition from the public.
The president’s quip was delivered with his signature grin, but the tension behind it was unmistakable. The authors’ claims—such as Biden allegedly not recognizing George Clooney and possibly needing a wheelchair—have dominated headlines. Biden used levity to push back. “Why didn’t they run against me then? Because I’d have beaten them,” he added, challenging his critics’ credibility.
The Book, the Claims, the Response
Original Sin has ignited controversy over Biden’s capability to lead. It claims his team scripted public interactions and prepared Cabinet meetings in advance to mask cognitive issues. However, a White House spokesperson firmly denied these accounts: “There is nothing in this book that shows Joe Biden failed to do his job… nor did they prove their allegation that there was a cover-up or conspiracy.”
