July 18th 2024.
After testing positive for Covid-19, US President Joe Biden has temporarily suspended his presidential campaign. This news was shared by the White House, stating that Mr. Biden was set to attend a conference in Las Vegas on Wednesday evening, but had to cancel due to experiencing ‘mild symptoms’. Concerned about the well-being of others, the president told organisers of the UnidosUS Annual Conference that he did not want to put attendees at risk.
Karine Jean-Pierre, the press secretary, announced that Mr. Biden will now fly to his home in Delaware, where he will self-isolate and continue to fulfill his duties during that time. Janet Murguía, CEO of Hispanic civil rights group UnidosUS, shared that the president expressed his disappointment at not being able to join the conference in a phone call.
Despite being sick, Mr. Biden remains determined and committed to his presidential campaign. The president, who has attended numerous events, reportedly just tested positive for Covid-19. In light of this, he understands the need to take necessary precautions, especially since he was not wearing a face mask on Air Force One. However, he reassured reporters that he is feeling well.
Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, reported that Mr. Biden is experiencing a runny nose, non-productive cough, and general malaise. He has been prescribed the drug Paxlovid. This diagnosis comes at a critical time, as the president is facing pressure to drop out of the race following a disastrous debate with Donald Trump and concerns about his physical and mental health due to gaffes.
During a recent interview, Biden was asked what would have to happen for him to consider dropping out of the race. He responded that it would only be if he was diagnosed with a ‘medical condition’ by a doctor. Despite this, he remains determined to stay in the race and address Hispanic voters in Las Vegas at a later date.
The president's determination has attracted criticism from Democratic voters and officials, with Congressman Adam Schiff calling on him to ‘pass the torch’ and secure his legacy of leadership by allowing the party to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election. In response, the Biden campaign pointed to extensive support from members of Congress and the Congressional Black and Hispanic Caucuses.
This is not the first time Mr. Biden has tested positive for Covid-19. He previously tested positive twice in the summer of 2022 and has been experiencing mild symptoms since returning to his Delaware home over the weekend. Health officials have reported an increase in emergency room visits and positive test results in many parts of the country, especially in the southwestern US.
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