Biden's aides hid cognitive decline during his reelection campaign

In the United States, concerns about Joe Biden's mental and physical health emerged prominently during the final years of his presidency. A new book by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson reveals that Biden exhibited significant cognitive decline, including moments of forgetfulness and incoherence, raising alarms among his inner circle and Democratic allies. In response to these concerns, Biden’s aides took measures to shield him from public scrutiny, limiting his schedule and avoiding unscripted situations that could reveal his deteriorating condition. As the 2024 election approached, alarm spread among various factions within the Democratic Party about Biden's ability to fulfill the responsibilities of his office and his prospects for reelection, culminating in a contentious decision for him to run again despite visible challenges. The book argues that Biden's decision put not only his health at risk but also jeopardized the Democratic Party's future by hiding from voters the reality of his capabilities. Notably, family members and senior aides formed a close-knit group internally referred to as 'the Politburo,' facilitating an effort marked by loyalty and denial regarding the president's cognitive state. This has led some prominent Democrats, including former officials and candidates, to question the ethics of concealing such significant information as Biden sought reelection, highlighting a potential disconnect between leadership perceptions and grassroots awareness. As a result, discussions about Biden's legacy and the efficacy of his administration have intensified, invoking a broader conversation about age, health, and the responsibilities of those in power. Amid these challenges, Biden's diagnosis of prostate cancer reportedly adds a layer of complexity to an already evolving narrative about the former president's health and his capacity to lead effectively.