POLITICS
Joe Biden explains reason behind his poor debate performance against Donald Trump
The US president’s appearance in the debate was heavily criticized, with many Democrats said to now believe a change in candidate is required.
President Joe Biden has finally shared the reasons for his poor performance in the first presidential debate against Donald Trump, where the Republican emerged victorious. On June 27, the Democratic leader’s performance was weaker compared to the former president. Apart from failing to answer several questions, Biden meandered, spoke in whispers, and uttered some nonsensical phrases, as well as speaking with a hoarse voice.
According to reports from the White House, the President of the United States was examined by his physician, Kevin O’Connor, at Camp David days before the debate. Following the examination, it was determined to be a cold, with a negative COVID result. Nevertheless, Biden justified his performance with another reason.
Biden “didn’t listen” to his staff’s debate advice
At a campaign fundraising event in McLean, Virginia, on Tuesday night, the president attributed his poor performance in last week’s debate to the amount of overseas travel he undertook in June, according to a report from ABC News.
“I didn’t have my best night, but the fact is that you know, I wasn’t very smart,”
“I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones ... before ... the debate.,” he said, referring to recent trips, including his visit to France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
“Didn’t listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage,” he added. “That’s no excuse but it is an explanation.”
He also highlighted that his campaign has raised millions of dollars since the night of the first debate.
The age concern of Biden and Trump
Since announcing his bid for a second term, Biden has raised concerns among voters due to his age. If he wins the election, the president would begin another term in the White House at 82 years old, concluding it at 86. Former President Trump has also faced scrutiny on this issue, as he is only three years younger than Biden.
During the first presidential debate, both were questioned on the topic. While the Democrat emphasized his political track record, Trump pointed out that he has undergone physical exams and cognitive tests to demonstrate his fitness to return to the White House.