White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre faced a tense moment when a reporter questioned President Joe Biden’s mental acuity and whether he was “awake” enough to address the media.
NBC’s Kelly O’Donnell asked, “Does the president have a duty to review data, like polling information that’s coming in, donor information, the fears and concerns or anxieties expressed by Democrats? Does he have a duty to review what’s happening now?”
Jean-Pierre asked, “When you say a duty, can you say more about the duty piece?”
“You are saying he’s absolutely running,” O’Donnell said.
“Yeah. Well, he’s saying that, and I’m sharing — I’m sharing with you his view,” Jean-Pierre said.
“And we would invite the president to come here and tell us directly,” O’Donnell said.
“Noted, Kelly,” Jean Pierre said.
“But — ” O’Donnell began.
“If he’s awake,” an unidentified reporter cut-in.
“That’s inappropriate,” O’Donnell said.
Jean-Pierre said, “As you heard from your colleague, the president of the WHCA, that’s inappropriate. Thank you, Kelly.”
Amid criticism and polls indicating doubts about Biden’s cognitive health, there have been numerous calls for him to drop out of the race, with internal Democratic concerns and staff expressing nervousness.
Despite this, Biden has affirmed his intention to continue running for the presidency, emphasizing his focus on his campaign and work as president.
“I’m not going anywhere,” Biden said.
