The revelations of former President Joe Biden’s deteriorating health throughout his tenure have focused attention on statements made by his administration’s leaders at the time.
Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, was among the most vocal authorities in support of Biden’s physical and mental endurance. She denied in the past that the former president was suffering from cognitive impairment or other health problems as early as 2022.
In June 2022, Jean-Pierre seemed surprised when then-CNN anchor Don Lemon asked her if Biden would have the “stamina” to serve a second term.
“That is not a question that we should be even asking,” she said before adding that reports of Biden’s declining cognitive faculties were “hearsay.”
“Don, you’re asking me this question. Oh my gosh. He’s the President of the United States… just look at the work he does. And look how he’s delivering for the American public,” she said.
In a news conference in August 2023, Jean-Pierre referred to claims that Biden was closing engagements as early as 10 a.m. due to “ridiculous assumptions” because he was tired. When asked if Biden’s staff “treats him like a baby” the next month, the press secretary retorted.
“No one treats the President of the United States, the commander in chief, like a baby. That’s ridiculous. It’s a ridiculous claim,” she responded.
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