Washington, D.C. – President Biden underwent his annual physical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, raising interest due to his status as the oldest president in U.S. history. At 81 years old, Biden would be 86 by the end of a potential second term if re-elected. Following his last physical in February 2023, doctors declared Biden to be in good health, vigorous, and fit to handle his presidential duties.
Concerns about Biden’s age have been highlighted by the public, with attention drawn to his occasional gaffes, coughing, slow walking, and even a fall from his bicycle. Despite these concerns, Biden’s visit to Walter Reed for his physical examination was routine. The White House indicated that a summary of the physical would be released later on Wednesday.
Former President Donald Trump, aged 77, is positioned as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, potentially setting up a rematch against Biden in November. A recent special counsel’s report criticized Biden’s memory, labeling it as “hazy,” “fuzzy,” “faulty,” “poor,” and with “significant limitations.” However, Biden disputed these claims, asserting that his memory is intact.
Biden’s previous physical examinations have revealed various health issues, including a lesion removed from his chest and occasional coughing attributed to acid reflux. He also had a colonoscopy in 2021, during which a benign polyp was removed. In 1988, Biden underwent surgery to repair two brain aneurysms, with no recurrence reported since a test in 2014 confirmed the status of his arteries.
As the upcoming election approaches, Democratic constituents have expressed reservations about Biden seeking a second term. Polls indicate similar reluctance towards Trump, yet both candidates are advancing in their respective party nominations. Biden recently secured a victory in Michigan’s Democratic primary, while activists organized an “uncommitted” campaign reflecting disillusionment with Biden’s foreign policy decisions regarding the conflict in Gaza.
In light of these developments, the political landscape remains complex as both Biden and Trump navigate challenges within their own parties. The coming months will reveal how these dynamics shape the upcoming election and the future of American leadership.