US President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19 during his visit to Las Vegas, prompting him to cancel a scheduled speech due to mild symptoms. Following the news, Biden humorously remarked, "I’m sick," taking a dig at figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
He took to microblogging site X, writing, "I’m sick", only to trail with another post, writing, "of Elon Musk and his rich buddies trying to buy this election". The second post also features images of both Trump and Musk, along with a direct link to a donation page for Biden's campaign.
I'm sick— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 17, 2024
Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced that despite being vaccinated and boosted, Biden had mild symptoms and was self-isolating after testing positive for Covid-19.
As he boarded Air Force One to return to Delaware for recuperation, Biden told reporters, "I feel good," although he moved slowly and cautiously, holding the railing tightly while climbing the stairs.
The timing of Biden's illness is critical as he has been losing ground in battleground states against Republican Donald Trump, who is headlining a triumphant convention this week following an assassination attempt survived on Saturday. The White House indicated Biden planned to spend a long weekend at his Delaware beach house, though it was uncertain how long his illness would keep him off the campaign trail.
Shortly after the announcement, Biden's motorcade proceeded to the Las Vegas airport after he taped a radio interview in the city. Earlier, he had greeted several people at a Mexican restaurant before learning of his positive test. The news was met with disappointment at a scheduled speech to the Latino civil rights group UnidosUS, where organiser Janet Murguia informed attendees of Biden's COVID diagnosis.
Despite internal pressures within the Democratic Party questioning his ability to seek re-election due to age concerns, Biden has remained steadfast, stating only "the Lord Almighty" could persuade him to step aside. He is set to continue fulfilling his presidential duties while self-isolating in Delaware, according to Jean-Pierre.
Biden's health situation emerged after he complained of upper respiratory symptoms earlier in the day, prompting a COVID-19 test that returned positive results. His symptoms remain mild, and he has begun treatment with Paxlovid, as confirmed by White House doctor Kevin O'Connor, who noted Biden's vital signs were stable.
While concerns about Biden's health and electoral viability persist, he remains determined to press forward with his campaign efforts despite calls from prominent Democrats like Congressman Adam Schiff of California to "pass the torch" to another candidate.
The incident underscores the challenges facing Biden as he seeks to maintain momentum in a contentious re-election bid amid ongoing health uncertainties.
With inputs from agencies
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