What’s going on?
President Biden surprised observers by announcing an impromptu visit to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Wednesday for his annual physical examination, a tradition observed by all presidents since Richard Nixon. Situated in Bethesda, Maryland, Walter Reed has been the primary facility for presidential medical care and check-ups.
The decision comes amidst ongoing discussions about Biden’s health, particularly regarding cognitive abilities, sparked by recent comments from White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. Earlier this month, Jean-Pierre reiterated Biden’s physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor’s stance that a separate cognitive test was unnecessary, citing Biden’s daily demonstration of cognitive prowess through his decision-making and interactions with global leaders.
Biden’s last physical examination was conducted on February 16 of the previous year, with his physician affirming his fitness to discharge presidential duties. However, critics have raised concerns about the transparency of Biden’s health status, particularly following claims by Special Counsel Robert Hur regarding significant memory issues.
Hur’s report, while finding no grounds for criminal charges related to classified document handling, highlighted Biden’s memory lapses, including a mix-up concerning the date of his son Beau’s death. The report portrayed Biden as an elderly man with memory challenges, potentially complicating any legal proceedings against him.
With the upcoming November presidential elections looming, Biden’s Wednesday physical is anticipated to be the final update on his health status before voters cast their ballots. The demand for increased transparency regarding his physical and mental health persists, underscoring the significance of this examination in addressing public concerns and perceptions surrounding the president’s fitness for office.