The close associates of Joe Biden have become increasingly aware of the impacts of his age, working diligently to navigate his difficulties and counteract the narrative surrounding any perceived decline, as detailed in a recent article.
Reported by the New York Times on Friday, the president’s protection came from a group of six vital individuals who were unified in their belief that he was capable of and deserving a second term, based on numerous interviews with those in Biden’s orbit.
Among the six were two of Biden’s family members—his wife, Jill Biden, and son, Hunter Biden—both of whom had strong confidence in his ability to defeat Donald Trump.
The remaining four were prominent advisors.
Experienced strategist Mike Donilon and counselor Steve Ricchetti were responsible for managing the flow of information to the president, sometimes withholding unfavorable polling results from him.
Meanwhile, Annie Tomasini, Biden’s deputy chief of staff, and Anthony Bernal, the first lady’s principal aide, meticulously maintained the president’s itinerary.
As a group, their objective was to persuade the nation that Biden was capable of serving another term, despite his age-related signs being evident both in public and private spheres, according to the Times.
Three unnamed assistants interviewed by the publication recounted overhearing Donilon inform Biden in mid-2022, “Your primary concern is how people perceive your age.”
Those surrounding Biden noted a change in his speech, which had slowed down compared to just a few years earlier, and mentioned challenges he faced when trying to exit the presidential limousine, as per the Times. Some raised concerns about moments where he seemed somewhat disoriented or in a daze.
The initiative to circumvent Biden’s declining abilities was characterized by careful coordination, according to the report.
His aides ensured that he utilized a teleprompter consistently—even during smaller fundraising events at donors’ residences. They also modified the process for boarding Air Force One to require fewer steps.
Concurrently, Biden’s team admonished journalists about coverage that highlighted the president’s age-related issues and persuaded supporters to publish articles and social media content that challenged the negative coverage.
Throughout, Biden’s own sense of pride fueled a determination to showcase his energy.
At times, his efforts would not go as intended. For example, after he injured his foot shortly before taking office, Biden opted against wearing an orthopedic boot, worrying it might portray him as vulnerable. The Times reported that the injury, which did not heal properly, resulted in a shuffling gait that continued for the duration of his presidency.
A spokesperson for the White House did not provide an immediate response to The Daily Beast’s inquiry regarding the Times’ article.
Biden ultimately exited the presidential race in July following a poor debate performance against Trump. Following Kamala Harris’ defeat to Trump in November, many commentators suggested that the outcome might have been different had Biden chosen to withdraw earlier.
In a conversation with USA Today earlier this month, Biden reiterated his belief that he could have triumphed over Trump, while also conceding that his age was a factor.
“It’s bold to presume that, but I believe yes,” he stated.
