Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer suggested that President Joe Biden should consider taking a cognitive test to address growing concerns about his mental fitness following a poor debate performance in June. Speaking to CNN’s Abby Phillip, Whitmer stated, “I don’t think that it would hurt,” emphasizing that such a move could alleviate mounting worries.
Despite acknowledging that Biden’s debate performance was “not a great success,” Whitmer defended the president’s commitment and dedication to his role. She highlighted Biden’s daily efforts to fight for the American public, contrasting his selflessness with former President Donald Trump, whom she described as self-centered and convicted of 34 felonies. Governor Gretchen Whitmer stressed the high stakes of the current political landscape, insisting that Biden’s presence in the race remains crucial unless he decides otherwise.
Biden Addresses Health Concerns in Recent Interview
In a recent interview with ABC News’ George Stephanopoulos, President Biden downplayed concerns about his cognitive abilities, attributing his poor debate performance to isolated factors rather than a serious condition. Biden explained that as president, he undergoes rigorous neurological testing daily, which has not indicated any need for additional cognitive tests or examinations by a neurologist.
When questioned about the necessity of cognitive tests following his debate performance, Biden confidently responded that no medical professional has recommended it. He maintained that his health remains robust, with no current plans to undergo further testing. Biden’s reassurance aimed to quell doubts and reinforce his capability to lead effectively.
Democratic Party Dynamics and Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Position
Governor Whitmer’s remarks come at a time when the Democratic Party faces internal struggles regarding Biden’s reelection bid. Concerns about Biden’s potential impact on down-ballot races have prompted nine House Democrats and Vermont Senator Peter Welch to call for his withdrawal. Whitmer, a potential candidate should Biden step aside, was present at a recent meeting with Democratic governors but did not speak to the press immediately after.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed frustration over the focus on Biden’s candidacy instead of addressing the threat posed by Donald Trump. She criticized the speculative nature of replacing Biden with other leaders, emphasizing the president’s earned nomination. Whitmer also highlighted Trump’s penchant for retribution, referencing reports that he keeps a list of political adversaries, which could include Democrats like herself. She pointed to the Supreme Court’s ruling granting absolute immunity to presidents for core official acts, warning of the dangers of Trump’s potential return to power.
Calls for Biden to Withdraw and His Response
The suggestion for Biden to take a cognitive test comes amid increasing calls from critics and Democratic lawmakers for him to bow out of the presidential race. However, Biden has consistently dismissed these calls. In a recent interview with ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos, Biden likened the challenges of his job to undergoing “a full neurological test every day.” When asked about his willingness to take a cognitive test, Biden asserted, “no one said I had to,” referring to his physicians’ assessments.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer also addressed the calls for Biden to drop out of the race, firmly rejecting them. She stated, “We have a field, and unless one person, Joe Biden, makes an alternative decision, this is the field, and we’ve got to go.” Whitmer’s support for Biden remains unwavering, highlighting the need to rally behind the current candidate field unless Biden himself decides otherwise.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer Adds to Growing Democratic Concern
Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s comments follow an op-ed by Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., published in the Washington Post, urging Biden to withdraw from the presidential race. Welch’s op-ed praised Biden as a “man of uncommon decency” but expressed concern over his “disastrous debate performance” and its potential impact on the upcoming election. Welch called Trump a “pathological liar” and a “felon” but warned that Biden might struggle to defeat him this time.
Welch’s op-ed reflects a broader sentiment among some Democratic lawmakers. Other notable figures calling for Biden to step down include Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., Rep. Pat Ryan, D-N.Y., Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn., and Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Ill. These concerns indicate a significant division within the Democratic Party regarding Biden’s viability as a candidate for the 2024 election.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s suggestion for Biden to take a cognitive test highlights ongoing concerns about his mental acuity amidst growing calls for him to withdraw from the presidential race. Biden’s firm stance against these calls and his commitment to continue his campaign underscore the challenges and divisions within the Democratic Party as they approach the 2024 election.
