President Joe Biden, facing pressure from fellow Democrats to withdraw his re-election bid, tested positive for Covid-19 while visiting Las Vegas on Wednesday. The White House announced that the 81-year-old Democrat, who is vaccinated and boosted, is experiencing mild symptoms and has begun self-isolating in Delaware after cancelling a scheduled speech.
As Biden boarded Air Force One to depart Las Vegas, he assured reporters he was feeling “good,” though he moved cautiously, holding the railing tightly as he ascended the stairs. The timing of his illness is critical as he competes against Republican Donald Trump in key battleground states, with Trump headlining a prominent convention this week following a recent assassination attempt.
Plans are for Biden to spend a long weekend at his Delaware beach house, although it remains uncertain how long his illness will prevent him from campaigning. Immediately after the announcement, Biden’s motorcade proceeded to the Las Vegas airport following a radio interview in the city. Earlier, he had interacted with a small group at a Mexican restaurant before the positive test result prompted the cancellation of his speech to the Latino civil rights group UnidosUS.
Biden, who had spent two nights campaigning in Vegas, is grappling with internal Democratic dissent regarding his candidacy due to concerns over his age. Despite calls to step aside, Biden has remained resolute, insisting only the “Lord Almighty” could sway him otherwise.
“He will be returning to Delaware where he will self-isolate and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during that time,” said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. Biden’s physician noted earlier symptoms of upper respiratory issues prompted the Covid-19 test, which yielded positive results.
Biden, who had a previous bout with Covid-19 in July 2022, has received an initial dose of Paxlovid and is reportedly experiencing mild symptoms. His health status and ability to resume campaigning will be closely monitored according to CDC guidelines.
