During a fundraiser in Los Angeles, US President Joe Biden experienced a moment that has sparked significant online discussion. As the crowd stood to applaud, Biden appeared to freeze, staring at the audience for an extended period. Former President Barack Obama then intervened, taking Biden’s wrist and guiding him off the stage with a smile. This incident, occurring after a 45-minute interview with Jimmy Kimmel, has fueled a debate about Biden’s fitness for office.
Social media erupted with commentary. Piers Morgan, a British broadcaster, tweeted, “So embarrassing. The Democrats can’t let this go on, surely?” This sentiment echoed across various platforms, with users expressing concerns about Biden’s mental acuity. Many questioned why a person of his age and wealth wouldn’t simply enjoy their life rather than participating in politics. Some pointedly asserted that acknowledging Biden’s mental state shouldn’t be a partisan issue.
One user even compared Biden’s appearance to an elderly statesman being presented for a wave and smile, questioning his ability to lead the free world. Others expressed empathy, comparing Biden’s situation to an elderly parent who may require assistance with simple tasks.
However, there were also voices defending the president, attributing the incident to fatigue. One user pointed out that Biden had recently traveled to Italy for a high-intensity conference and then flown back to the US for the event.
This isn’t the first time Biden’s on-stage behavior has raised questions. During the G7 summit in Italy, he appeared confused about his location during a parachute exhibition. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assisted him by gently guiding him back for a group photo. These incidents, while sparking debate, highlight the increasing scrutiny of the president’s public appearances and his ability to perform his duties.