US President Joe Biden has been facing accusations from the White House of being targeted by “right-wing critics” who are allegedly editing videos to spread misinformation about his mental state.
The latest incident involved claims that Biden had a moment of confusion at a weekend fundraiser, requiring former President Barack Obama to lead him off stage. However, the White House defended Biden, stating that he was merely pausing to acknowledge applause.
As the scrutiny on Biden’s mental acuity continues to intensify, opinion polls suggest that voters are paying more attention to his age and faculties.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre slammed the critics, calling their actions “done in bad faith” and highlighting the strong relationship between Biden and Obama.
Conservative outlets shared a clip showing Biden standing on stage before Obama guided him off, with former President Donald Trump questioning Biden’s suitability for office. However, allies of the President pointed to longer videos showing Biden smiling and interacting with the crowd.
The White House also criticized the framing of another clip by the New York Post, which claimed Biden had appeared to “wander off” during a skydiving demonstration in Italy. However, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak clarified that Biden was simply being polite and engaging with the participants.
In the run-up to the first televised debate between Biden and Trump later this month, Biden’s supporters are countering the criticism by sharing viral clips of Trump to suggest that it is the Republican candidate who lacks mental lucidity.
The stage is set for a heated battle as the White House election looms in November.
