Biden's Health Under Scrutiny After Debate Performance
President Joe Biden's recent performance in the June 27 presidential debate against Donald Trump has ignited concerns about his age, health, and capability to lead the US government. At 81 years old, Biden's health has become a focal point for voters as the November elections approach.
Medical Examinations and Neurological Assessments
Administration officials attributed Biden's confusing and sometimes indecipherable answers during the debate to a cold, jet lag, and poor preparation. Dr. Kevin O'Connor, Biden's personal physician, stated that the president undergoes extensive annual medical examinations and regular verbal check-ups. O'Connor confirmed that Biden had a detailed neurological examination with no signs of stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Visitor records revealed that Dr. Kevin Cannard, a neurologist specializing in Parkinson's disease, had visited the White House multiple times. However, most of these visits were related to his role in the White House Medical Unit, treating various neurological issues over the past 12 years.
Republican Pressure and Cognitive Health Concerns
Following Biden's debate performance, House Republicans demanded explanations from Dr. O'Connor regarding the president's cognitive health. The House Oversight Committee, led by Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), questioned the independence of O'Connor's assessments and cited Biden's occasional mental gaffes as reasons for a cognitive test.
Despite these concerns, the White House has maintained that Biden is a healthy, active, and robust individual capable of fulfilling presidential duties. White House spokesperson Ian Sams dismissed the Republican allegations as 'crazy, discredited conspiracy theories.'
Calls for Transparency and Further Testing
There have been calls for Biden to release his full medical history, similar to what Senator John McCain did during his presidential campaign. Some medical experts and former colleagues of O'Connor have suggested that Biden's debate performance warrants a cognitive screening to determine if further testing is necessary. The White House has yet to respond to these demands.
