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Breaking: Biden Health Deteriorating Rapidly

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Are lawmakers cutting deals behind the scenes to replace Biden?

President Biden’s cognitive performance in private meetings with congressional lawmakers has raised concerns among both Republican and some Democratic observers, especially as the presidential election approaches. At 81, Biden is the oldest sitting president, and questions about his mental acuity have become more pronounced. According to a Wall Street Journal report based on interviews with 45 lawmakers and administration officials, Biden’s age has been evident during several meetings.

Criticism predominantly comes from Republicans, although a few Democrats have also noted instances where Biden appeared to show his age. These observations were made by individuals who either participated in the meetings or were briefed about them later. Despite these criticisms, some Democratic participants and administration officials have defended Biden’s conduct during these interactions.

During a January meeting to discuss additional funding for Ukraine, Biden reportedly spoke so softly that it was difficult for some attendees to hear him, according to five sources. He frequently referred to his notes, paused for extended periods, and even closed his eyes, leading some to question whether he was fully engaged.

In another instance from February, Biden met with House Speaker Mike Johnson and appeared to forget details of a recent policy change regarding big-energy projects, suggesting it was merely a study. Six sources familiar with the meeting noted Johnson’s concern over the president’s memory lapse.

In last year’s negotiations with House Republicans on lifting the debt ceiling, Biden’s performance varied, according to then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and two others involved. Some days he was sharp and engaging, while on others he seemed to rely heavily on notes and mumbled through points.

White House officials have dismissed these concerns, attributing them to partisan motivations. Spokesman Andrew Bates emphasized Biden’s effectiveness as a leader and pointed to his legislative successes, such as securing Ukraine funding and a debt-ceiling increase without major Republican concessions.

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Criticism of Biden’s cognitive abilities is not isolated. Former President Trump, Biden’s main rival in the upcoming election, has also faced scrutiny over his mental sharpness. At 77, Trump has made notable gaffes and shown signs of memory lapses, prompting both parties to question his acuity.

Some of Biden’s supporters attribute his speaking style to his well-known speech impediment and tendency to be long-winded, suggesting his behavior reflects unevenness rather than confusion. The White House maintains that Biden’s doctors have found him fit to serve, and his recent physical indicated no need for a cognitive test.

Administration officials have highlighted several examples where Biden was sharp and engaged, such as his handling of the situation in Israel in April and late-night phone calls with lawmakers. They argue that public concerns about Biden’s mental acuity are influenced by selective moments during speeches and public appearances.

For instance, during a campaign event in Detroit, Biden mistakenly said he was vice president during the COVID-19 pandemic, and he mixed up names of his Hispanic cabinet secretaries in January. Similarly, he referenced deceased leaders in conversations about recent international meetings.

Trump has had his own mix-ups, confusing political figures and making errors during speeches, which has led to questions about his cognitive health as well.

The limited media access to Biden has also contributed to these concerns. According to Towson University professor emeritus Martha Joynt Kumar, Biden has given fewer interviews and press conferences than his recent predecessors. His last town-hall-style meeting with an independent news outlet was in October 2021.

Visitor logs show a decline in small meetings with lawmakers over Biden’s term, decreasing from over three dozen in his first year to about a dozen in his third year. This reduced frequency has further fueled speculation about his cognitive capabilities as he continues to navigate the responsibilities of the presidency.