During a meeting with Democratic governors, President Joe Biden quipped, "It's just my brain," addressing health concerns while reaffirming his determination to stay in the presidential race amid calls for him to step down.
President Joe Biden assured more than 20 Democratic governors that he is in good health aside from some issues with his brain function during a discussion about his presidential campaign on Wednesday, sources told the New York Times.
Despite increasing calls for him to withdraw from the race, Biden told the governors he intends to stay in, according to participants in the meeting and others briefed on his comments. When Hawaii Gov. Josh Green inquired about his health, the 81-year-old Biden responded that everything was fine except for his “brain.”
“It’s just my brain,” Biden told Green, a remark that left at least one governor confused, though three others interpreted it as a joke, the NYT reported. Jen O’Malley Dillon, Biden’s campaign chair, confirmed to the NYT that he was joking, adding that he clarified with “all kidding aside” after making the comment.
Biden explained to the governors that his recent trips to France, California, and Italy had impacted his debate performance, according to the NYT. He acknowledged telling his staff that he needed more rest but often pushes himself beyond their recommended schedule.
Biden also mentioned he should start working fewer hours and avoid events past 8 p.m., one source familiar with his remarks told the NYT.
While publicly maintaining his commitment to the race, a “key ally” told the NYT that Biden is considering whether he can salvage his candidacy. This ally, granted anonymity to discuss the sensitive situation, noted that Biden understands the need to excel in upcoming public appearances to alleviate concerns about his age.
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