Washington, July 17, 2024 – President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that the 81-year-old president, who is vaccinated and boosted, has tested positive for Covid twice before.
Biden was seen earlier on Wednesday engaging with supporters in Las Vegas and speaking at an event but had to cancel a campaign speech scheduled for later that night due to the diagnosis. He will isolate at his home in Delaware while continuing to fulfill his presidential duties.
Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the president’s physician, reported that Biden showed upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and cough, and has started taking Paxlovid. Despite feeling fine during his first event of the day, Biden later tested positive.
In a series of tweets, Biden thanked everyone for their well wishes and reaffirmed his commitment to his duties while recovering. Notably, one tweet humorously stated: “I’m sick,” followed by “…of Elon Musk and his rich buddies trying to buy this election,” linking to a donations portal.
This health update comes amid increasing calls for Biden to step aside from the 2024 presidential race due to his age and a poor debate performance in June. Nearly two dozen Democratic politicians, including Congressman Adam Schiff, have recently urged Biden to pass the torch to another Democrat, though Biden has expressed reluctance to do so given the country’s divided state.
In a forthcoming BET interview, Biden mentioned for the first time that he would consider dropping out if his doctors identified a serious medical condition.
News Summary: President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms. While he isolates in Delaware, he will continue his presidential duties. This diagnosis comes amid increasing pressure from within his party to step aside from the 2024 presidential race. Biden, however, remains committed to his candidacy unless a serious medical condition arises.
Source: BBC News
