Joe Biden Tests Positive for COVID-19, Cancels Las Vegas Appearance
3 min read
Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
Today, Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of a scheduled appearance in Las Vegas, the White House recently confirmed. The 81-year-old President is currently experiencing “mild symptoms” such as general malaise and has canceled his public appearance as a result of the infection. He is now headed home to Delaware to self-isolate. According to Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Biden will “carry out all of his duties fully during that time.”
White House Announcement
US President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while visiting Las Vegas on Wednesday. The White House announced in a statement that he is self-isolating after experiencing mild symptoms. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated, “He is vaccinated and boosted and experiencing mild symptoms. 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.”
President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19. pic.twitter.com/4ymsObJr14
— Pop Base (@PopBase) July 17, 2024
Symptoms and Treatment
Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s physician, reported that the President presented with upper respiratory symptoms, including rhinorrhea (runny nose) and a non-productive cough, along with general malaise. He has been prescribed Paxlovid, an antiviral drug, and has already taken his first dose. Despite the illness, Joe Biden appears to be in good spirits. In a video shared on social media, he was seen slowly walking up the stairs of Air Force One and telling reporters, “Good, I feel good.”
Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 AGAIN today…
— Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) July 17, 2024
Remember when he said, "You’re not gonna get COVID if you have these vaccinations.” pic.twitter.com/iicZCzDP5C
Context and Impact
This diagnosis comes shortly after Joe Biden stated in an interview that he would only reconsider dropping out of the presidential race if a medical condition emerged. The President, who recently debated Donald Trump, now faces additional scrutiny regarding his health and ability to serve another term. His diagnosis also follows an assassination attempt on Trump at a Pennsylvania rally over the weekend.
Biden, who is vaccinated and has received his recommended annual booster dose, seems to be maintaining a light-hearted approach to his illness. His official X account posted a witty set of Tweets, including, “I’m sick,” followed by “of Elon Musk and his this election” with a link to donate to his campaign.
of Elon Musk and his rich buddies trying to buy this election.
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 17, 2024
And if you agree, pitch in here.https://t.co/V93cYUUFQu
Public Reaction and Schedule Changes
The news of Biden’s positive test was announced shortly before he was scheduled to deliver a speech to Latino civil rights group UnidosUS. Janet Murguia, the event organizer, informed attendees of Biden’s diagnosis, which was met with loud groans. She assured them that Biden said, “we’re not going to get rid of him that quickly, we’re going to have a chance to hear from him in the future directly.”
The White House had initially planned for Biden to spend a long weekend at his Delaware beach house, but it is now unclear how long COVID-19 will keep him from the campaign trail. Shortly after the announcement, Biden’s motorcade was seen heading to the Las Vegas airport after he had taped a radio interview and greeted people at a Mexican restaurant earlier in the day.
This unexpected turn of events has raised questions about the President’s immediate plans and the impact on his campaign activities. As Biden heads back to Delaware to recover, the administration remains focused on ensuring continuity of his duties while addressing public concerns about his health.
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Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
