New Book Raises Concerns About Biden’s Health

Categories: Breaking NewsGovernment NewsHealthNews

A conceptual image showcasing the intersection of health issues and political leadership.

News Summary

Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson’s new book, ‘Original Sin,’ discusses President Biden’s health issues and aides’ negligence regarding his fitness for reelection. It reveals concerns from prominent Democrats about his cognitive abilities and the financial implications for campaign aides, creating a complex narrative of the Biden administration amidst health challenges leading up to the 2024 election.

Providence, RI – The new book titled “Original Sin,” authored by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson, has been released today and raises significant concerns regarding President Joe Biden’s health and his decision to seek reelection. The book comes on the heels of Biden’s recent disclosure of a prostate cancer diagnosis, prompting scrutiny of his ability to serve as the country’s leader.

“Original Sin” claims that President Biden’s aides overlooked substantial health warning signs as he navigated the challenges of his presidency. The authors portray Biden as increasingly vulnerable, leaving room for questions about his fitness to continue in office amidst signs of declining health. The book features insights from Biden’s staff, with a particular focus on Mike Donilon, a Providence native and Biden’s key aide since the 1980s.

In the narrative, Donilon’s role is depicted as both protective and admiring, illustrating a complex relationship with the president. The authors characterize Donilon’s influence as so significant that aides humorously suggested he had the power to persuade Biden to engage in military conflict. However, troubling moments are highlighted, including an incident during a bus trip in Iowa in December 2019, where Biden reportedly struggled to remember Donilon’s name.

Concerns Over Financial Compensation

The book also sheds light on the financial expectations for campaign aides, particularly regarding Donilon’s rumored compensation of $4 million for joining the reelection campaign. This figure would make him the highest-paid employee, contrasting sharply with campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon’s compensation of $300,000 and a $100,000 bonus.

Responses from Political Figures

Following Biden’s performance in a June debate against Donald Trump, concerns were further amplified among influential Democratic figures, including Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island. During a meeting on July 11, Reed recommended that Biden seek evaluations from two independent neurologists to assess his cognitive health, highlighting the growing anxiety within the party regarding Biden’s candidacy.

Senator Whitehouse echoed these concerns, suggesting an urgent need for a “very significant course correction” within the campaign and raised the possibility of considering the vice president as an alternative candidate. Despite the private discussions of worry among Senate Democrats, many chose not to speak publicly about their apprehensions surrounding Biden’s capacity to continue as a presidential candidate.

Absence of Notable Figures

Interestingly, the book does not mention Gina Raimondo, the former Rhode Island governor and current U.S. commerce secretary under Biden, which stands out given her previous connections to the president. Moreover, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee is included in the narrative, noted for his participation in interactions with Biden following the aforementioned debate.

Conclusion

“Original Sin” presents a complex portrait of President Biden navigating the path of reelection alongside health challenges and internal party concerns. The revelations about decisions made by his inner circle, particularly regarding executive health assessments and compensation, are set against a backdrop of growing anxiety within the Democratic ranks. As the political landscape evolves, the implications of these discussions may play a significant role in shaping the Biden administration’s future and its approach to the 2024 election.