President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19, experiencing mild symptoms, according to the White House. Karine Jean-Pierre, his press secretary, confirmed that despite being vaccinated and boosted, the 81-year-old president has contracted the virus for the third time.
Earlier in the day, President Biden was in Las Vegas engaging with supporters and participating in public events before cancelling a scheduled campaign speech. He plans to isolate at his home in Delaware while continuing his presidential duties remotely.
Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the president’s doctor, reported that Biden presented with upper respiratory symptoms and received his first dose of Paxlovid after testing positive later in the day. Biden reassured the public via Twitter that he intends to continue working for the American people during his recovery.
The news of Biden’s illness coincides with mounting pressure for him to reconsider his candidacy due to concerns over his age and health. Several top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Majority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have privately expressed concerns that Biden’s candidacy could adversely affect Democratic prospects in the upcoming elections.
While Biden has faced calls from nearly two dozen Democratic figures to step aside, including Congressman Adam Schiff, who cited doubts about Biden’s ability to compete against former President Donald Trump, Biden has asserted his determination to continue as the party’s nominee.
In an interview with BET, Biden acknowledged the division in the country but indicated he would only consider withdrawing from the race if advised by his doctors due to a medical condition. The president’s health and political future remain subjects of intense scrutiny and debate within Democratic circles as the situation develops.