As President Joe Biden approaches the final weeks of his presidency, concerns about his health and cognitive abilities have intensified. Sources within political and medical circles have pointed to the visible decline in the 82-year-old leader’s physical and mental state, fueling speculation about his capacity to navigate the stresses of his role.
"Joe is a shadow of who he was even a year ago," a Democratic insider revealed to Globe US. "His rapid decline has largely been shielded from the public by his retreat from the campaign and public stage, but he's definitely in bad shape."
The president’s absence from the campaign trail during the 2024 election, where Vice President Kamala Harris ran as the Democratic nominee against Republican President-elect Donald Trump, has raised eyebrows. Even First Lady Jill Biden took on a more prominent role in Harris's campaign, while President Biden remained largely behind the scenes.
"Joe was made aware that his presence was not desired," another source claimed. "When he did speak in public, it was often to the detriment of Kamala's campaign. Remarks like calling Trump’s supporters 'garbage' did more harm than good."
Reports suggest that Biden was pressured by influential Democratic figures, including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, to step aside and not pursue a second term. His performance during a debate with Trump, described by observers as “shockingly befuddled,” is believed to have been a turning point.
In recent months, Biden has been seen spending time at his vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Footage of him stumbling during a walk on the beach, needing assistance from the First Lady, has drawn further attention to his health. "The incredible stress and adversity of the last six months have not been good for him," a source said. "He's now sicker than anyone outside his immediate family and inner circle knows."
Medical experts highlight the role of stress in accelerating the symptoms of dementia. Florida-based longevity specialist Dr. Gabe Mirkin noted, "Social pressures and stress can make people lose brain function faster. It can accelerate inappropriate behavior, loss of memory, loss of muscle control, slurred speech, and other symptoms of dementia."
Dr. Holly Schiff, a psychologist in Connecticut, echoed these concerns, stating, "Chronic stress and emotional trauma can absolutely exacerbate the symptoms of dementia and potentially accelerate cognitive decline as well as the disease's progression."
While the doctors have not personally treated Biden, their assessments align with the observations of those close to the president. Insiders fear that the stress of his presidency, coupled with political betrayals and challenges, may have taken a significant toll on his well-being.
One political insider reflected on Biden’s legacy, saying, "The overriding impetus for his presidency was to rid America of Donald Trump, and look at how that has ended up. It's a dumpster fire. He is the president of the United States and yet he is also human. He is not exempt from health crises and mortality, just like the rest of us."