Janice R. Andrews
The White House announced that President Joe Biden has cancelled a planned campaign appearance in Las Vegas after testing positive for COVID-19. The President, who is still performing his duties but is feeling a little under the weather, will be going back to Delaware to recuperate.
President Biden Postpones His Las Vegas Speaking Engagement
On Wednesday afternoon, the President was scheduled to speak at the UnidosUS annual convention in Nevada. But shortly before he was supposed to speak, UnidosUS President and CEO Janet Murguía told the guests that Biden would not be speaking. There was a discernible pause before this announcement.
Confirmation of Positive Covid-19 Test by White House
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed Biden’s positive test result in a statement shortly after the postponement. “Earlier today following his first event in Las Vegas, President Biden tested positive for Covid-19,” Jean-Pierre stated. “He is receiving a booster shot and is exhibiting mild symptoms,” she continued. He is going to return to Delaware, where he will continue to properly do all of his obligations while isolating himself. The president continues to do all official tasks while in seclusion, and the White House will keep the public informed about his condition on a regular basis.”
The Biden Re-Election Campaign Is Under Growing Pressure
The announcement of Biden’s Covid diagnosis coincides with a pivotal point in his campaign for reelection. Concerns about the President’s age and cognitive ability have put him under severe scrutiny and pressure to resign as the Democratic Party’s front-runner. These worries were raised when the former president Donald Trump gave a dismal debate performance last month.
Adam Schiff, a congressional contender for the California Senate, emerged on Wednesday as the most well-known Democratic figure to demand that Biden halt his campaign. Subsequently, Jonathan Karl of ABC News reported that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer—a significant ally of Joe Biden—had counselled the President on Saturday to reevaluate his reelection bid.
Travel and Health of President Biden
Following his positive test, Biden was observed making his way cautiously up Air Force One’s stairs in Las Vegas as he got ready to head back to Delaware. Even though the test came back positive, Biden told reporters he felt well.
A note from the President’s physician, which was included in Jean-Pierre’s statement, listed the President’s symptoms, which included a runny nose, a productive cough, and general lethargy. Additionally, Biden would be taking Paxlovid, an antiviral medication, according to the note. “He felt OK for his first event of the day, but given that he was not feeling better, point-of-care testing for Covid-19 was conducted, and the results were positive,” said the letter.
Seclusion and Ongoing Responsibilities
Rehoboth, Delaware resident Biden will be self-isolating at his house in accordance with CDC protocols for symptomatic patients. According to the President’s physician, his symptoms are still moderate, and he has already taken his first dose of Paxlovid.
While in seclusion, President Biden will continue to perform his full obligations, the White House has promised the public. We’ll be providing regular updates on his health as he gets through this phase.
Consequences for the Initiative
The Las Vegas event was cancelled after Biden’s Covid diagnosis, adding another level of complexity to an already turbulent campaign season. The Democratic Party is under increasing internal pressure to explore other candidates for the 2024 race as the President attends to his health difficulties.
As he continues to oversee his duties from seclusion, the days ahead will be critical for Biden’s political future as well as his health. The White House is steadfast in its commitment to openness, making sure that the public is informed on the President’s health and capacity for carrying out his responsibilities.
