(FreePressBeacon.com) – Facing widespread calls from within his own party to exit the presidential race, Joe Biden has had to cancel a planned speech at the UnidosUS annual conference in Las Vegas due to contracting COVID-19.
Just after the illness was confirmed, Biden was seen moving slowly and could barely climb the stairs to board Air Force One for his return to Delaware.
Watch the video below.
Despite his condition, he assured accompanying reporters that he felt good.
The announcement came after a significant delay in his scheduled appearance, prompting UnidosUS president and CEO Janet Murguía to inform attendees that Biden would not be speaking.
Shortly after, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre released a statement: “Earlier today following his first event in Las Vegas, President Biden tested positive for COVID-19.”
Jean-Pierre elaborated, “He is vaccinated and boosted and he is 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.”
“The White House will provide regular updates on the president’s status as he continues to carry out the full duties of the office whilе in isolation,” she concluded.
This development happens amid intense scrutiny of Biden’s re-election campaign, driven by concerns over his recent public performances and calls from within his party to reconsider his candidacy.
Notably, Democratic Congressman Adam Schiff (CA) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (NY) have expressеd reservations about Biden’s continued run.
According to ABC News’ Jonathan Karl, Biden received a call from Schumer on Saturday, who asked the candidate to give up on his reelection efforts.
Alongside Jean-Pierre’s announcement, the White House released a “note from the president’s doctor” detailing Biden’s symptoms, including a runny nose, a non-productivе cough, and “general malaise.”
The note confirmed that Biden had started treatment with the antiviral drug Paxlovid and would be following the CDC’s guidancе for symptomatic individuals by self-isolating at his home in Rehoboth, Delaware.
This marks Biden’s second time dealing with COVID-19, having previously contracted the virus in 2022.
BREAKING: Senator Chuck Schumer reportedly told President Biden that it would be best for the country if he steps aside.
President Biden was seen slowly walking up the short stairs of Air Force One after testing positive for COVID.
During an interview released on Wednesday,… pic.twitter.com/EQtLJcjgyU
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 17, 2024
Copyright 2024, FreePressBeacon.com
