In response to growing pressure from fellow Democrats to end his re-election campaign, US President Joe Biden has expressed his willingness to undergo a neurological exam to address concerns about his mental fitness for office, but only if his doctors recommend it, CNN reported.
At a rare solo news conference at the conclusion of the NATO Summit, Biden stated, “I am not opposed. If my doctors tell me I should have another neurological exam, I’ll do it.” He added, “Every single day I’m surrounded by good docs. If they think there’s a problem, I promise you—or even if they don’t think it’s a problem and think I should have a neurological exam again, I’ll do it. No one’s suggesting that right now,” as per CNN.
Addressing concerns about his age, Biden lamented, “No matter what I did, no one’s gonna be satisfied.” He revealed that he has had three brain health checks while in office, with the most recent one occurring in February. “I’m tested every single day on my neurological capacity—the decisions I make every day,” he said, attributing age as a source of wisdom.
Biden reaffirmed his commitment to remaining in the race, but acknowledged the need to make his case to detractors and American voters concerned about his fitness for office following a poor debate performance. “I’m determined on running, but I think it’s important that I allay fears by seeing—letting them see me out there,” he said.
He highlighted his robust travel schedule since the debate, noting “over 20 major events, from Wisconsin and North Carolina,” and emphasized his efforts to “persuade people to move our way or people are already there.” Biden also pointed to his administration’s efforts and the importance of continuing their work. “I’m going to be going around making the case of the things that I think we have to finish and how we can’t afford to lose what we’ve done,” he said.
Despite calls from fellow Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, to step down from the presidential race, Biden remains confident in his ability to defeat former President Donald Trump in the upcoming elections.
