President Joe Biden faced questions about his mental acuity after news of a Parkinson’s disease specialist visiting the White House multiple times. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre dodged direct inquiries, sparking a tense exchange with reporters. Despite security concerns, Jean-Pierre clarified that Biden has not been treated for Parkinson’s. The press conference showcased the ongoing scrutiny over Biden’s health and ability to serve, especially after his debated performance against Donald Trump. Jean-Pierre defended the administration’s transparency on Biden’s health exams, urging against personal attacks from the press.
Meanwhile, Biden reaffirmed his commitment to the 2024 campaign, urging party unity and emphasizing the need to defeat Trump. In a fiery call to MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Biden expressed determination to face any challengers within the Democratic Party. The press conference and subsequent call reflect Biden’s efforts to dispel doubts about his candidacy amidst growing calls for him to step down.
Watch the full briefing below for more insights on this developing story.