Politics
WATCH: Concerns Arise as Biden Sounds Unwell in Call to Kamala Harris
After a conspicuous absence of five days, Biden’s voice was finally heard during a call into Vice President Kamala Harris’s event—a call that many are saying sounded less than reassuring. The event, a significant gathering on the South Lawn at the White House, was already notable as one of Harris’s first public appearances following Biden’s sudden withdrawal from his reelection bid.
It was here, amidst the choreographed endorsements and political reassurances, that Biden chose to make his auditory appearance. Biden just endorsed Harris for the presidency placing her at the forefront of the Democratic campaign. However, it wasn’t the content of Biden’s speech that captured the public’s attention—it was the delivery.
Phrases seemed jumbled, and pauses punctuated his speech in unusual places. His intent to reassure his team and supporters of his ongoing involvement and support for Harris was clear, yet his manner of speaking led to whispers of concern regarding his well-being.
“I want to call today and thank everybody, everybody in this effort,” Biden said over the phone. “I know yesterday’s news is surprising and it’s hard for you to hear, but it was the right thing to do. It’s a… I know it’s hard because you poured your heart and soul into me, saying, ‘help us win this thing, help me get this nomination, help me win the nomination, and then go on to win the presidency.'”
WATCH:
Further into the call, Biden attempted to bolster the morale of his team, reflecting on the achievements and the formidable campaign structure they had built together. “We built the best campaign in organization in history. I’ve been doing this, I always kid and say, I know I’m only 40, but I’ve been around a long time,” he joked.
The White House had announced that Biden is currently quarantining in Delaware and will return to Washington once he tests negative for COVID-19. However, they did not provide a more specific timeframe for his return.
White House physician wrote on Monday Kevin O’Conner, “President Biden completed his tenth dose of Paxlovid this morning. His symptoms have almost resolved completely. His pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate and temperature remain absolutely normal. His oxygen saturation continues to be excellent on room air. His lungs remain clear. The President continues to perform all of his presidential duties.”
Harris has swiftly amassed $49.6 million for her presidential campaign in just under a day following Biden’s withdrawal from the race and his endorsement of her as the Democratic nominee. “Since the president endorsed Vice President Harris yesterday afternoon, everyday Americans have given $49.6 million in grassroots donations to her campaign,” a campaign spokesperson for Biden confirmed on Monday.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) endorsed Harris, reversing her previous decision to withhold support. As the Democratic National Convention in Chicago approaches next month, it remains to be seen if Harris will face any challengers for the nomination.
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