Despite being out of office for over four months, Republican lawmakers are still focused on former President Joe Biden’s health. Recently, House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer sent letters to Biden’s doctor, Kevin O’Connor, and three former aides. They are being asked to testify about concerns surrounding Biden’s health, especially after his stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis.
Comer’s letters allege a "cover-up" regarding Biden’s mental decline. This comes at a time when new books are surfacing, outlining worries that White House staff and Democrats had about Biden’s health during his presidency’s final months.
"The cover-up of President Biden’s obvious mental decline is a historic scandal," Comer stated. He emphasized that the American public deserves clarity on when Biden’s decline began and who was making key decisions during that time.
While critics raise questions, Biden maintains he is capable of running for a second term. His performance in debates, however, drew scrutiny and led him to withdraw from the race. Jill Biden supports her husband, claiming he worked tirelessly each day. In a recent interview, she mentioned, “The people who wrote those books were not in the White House with us. Joe put in a full day, often working late at night.”
This scenario reflects a larger trend in politics where personal health and fitness for office become focal points. A 2021 survey found that 68% of voters believe a candidate’s health is essential in assessing their ability to serve effectively.
Recent historical examples echo this sentiment. In the 1970s, former President Ronald Reagan faced health issues while in office. Discussions about his capacity to lead became a significant topic among both supporters and opponents.
Public reaction on social media shows a divide. Some rally behind Biden, praising his dedication, while others express skepticism about his fitness for office. As political tensions rise, the intersection of health transparency and leadership continues to be a crucial issue.
For more on Biden’s recent health news, read details from Scripps News.