Is Biden really going to win again?
On Wednesday morning, President Biden’s demeanor during the welcoming ceremony for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida sparked attention and raised concerns. The President, aged 81, and Kishida, aged 66, exchanged greetings and handshakes with members of both delegations on the South Lawn of the White House.
Subsequently, they ascended a stage for the rendition of the national anthems of both nations, followed by a review of the US military honor guards. At one point, a military aide saluted the leaders, prompting Biden to begin raising his hand in response before hesitating and ultimately dropping it as he was directed to his position.
During the subsequent review, observers noted President Biden’s stiff gait and seemingly uncertain steps. Nevertheless, upon returning to the podium, both leaders delivered remarks emphasizing the strength and closeness of the US-Japan relationship, with Biden expressing gratitude for Japan’s historic gift of cherry trees and acknowledging the reconciliation between the two nations following World War II.
As they descended from the stage, Biden’s need to grasp a railing for support did not go unnoticed, prompting criticism from various quarters, including conservative voices on social media. These incidents have added to the ongoing scrutiny of Biden’s public appearances, with critics questioning his fitness for office given his age, currently the oldest of any US president.
The President’s age has been a point of comparison with his predecessor, former President Donald Trump, who is himself 77 years old. Concerns over Biden’s health and ability to serve effectively have become fodder for political discourse, particularly as the prospect of a second term looms.
Later in the day, President Biden was set to host a state dinner for Prime Minister Kishida, marking the fifth such event of his presidency.
WATCH:
Biden wraps up his remarks with the Japanese prime minister and shuffles back to the White House — dazed and confused the entire way pic.twitter.com/U1BAQTQP07
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) April 10, 2024
