President Biden has tested positive for COVID-19 while campaigning in Las Vegas, the White House announced on Wednesday. The diagnosis comes at a critical juncture in his campaign, where questions are being raised about his capability to pursue a second term. Biden, 81, has faced calls from prominent Democrats, including Rep. Adam Schiff of California, to withdraw from the race after a notable stumble during a debate with former President Donald Trump.
Despite these calls, Biden has remained adamant about continuing his campaign. He has been actively campaigning since the June 27 debate, addressing the annual NAACP convention in Las Vegas and participating in interviews with BET News and Univision Radio.
On Wednesday, despite experiencing cold symptoms, Biden conducted an interview with Univision Radio at a local restaurant. His subsequent positive COVID result was confirmed by a rapid test. The President’s symptoms are described as mild, and he will return to Delaware to self-isolate while continuing to carry out his duties. He is currently being treated with Paxlovid, an antiviral medication.
Biden was initially scheduled to address UnidosUS, but Janet Murguia, the group’s president, relayed the news of his diagnosis at the conference, sharing that Biden had informed her directly over the phone.
This marks President Biden’s second encounter with COVID-19; he first tested positive on July 21, 2022, experiencing mild symptoms and a rebound case after Paxlovid treatment.
Concerns about Biden’s age and health have been a recurring theme this year. Last fall, his physician noted that Biden had received an updated COVID vaccine, a flu shot, and was vaccinated for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), highlighting ongoing efforts to safeguard his health.