President Joe Biden faced a significant test on Thursday as he navigated an unscripted news conference following a three-day NATO conference. His verbal gaffes during this event have sparked concerns about his capability to run and serve another four years, although he likely managed to quell calls from fellow Democrats to exit the race against Donald Trump. Nonetheless, one notable House member did call for him to step down shortly after the event.
In the hour-long press conference, Biden made several verbal missteps underlining concerns about his cognitive abilities. He mistakenly referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as “Vice President Trump” and mistakenly introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as “President Putin” at an earlier NATO summit event.
He also appeared to confuse economic data and geographical regions, and despite already debating Trump, he remarked that the campaign hadn’t started in earnest.
Connecticut Rep. Jim Himes, the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, suggested Biden should step aside to allow the party to present the strongest candidate against Trump. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Himes emphasized the need for a new generation of leaders and expressed doubt about Biden’s ability to be that leader.
Democratic lawmakers had hoped for a strong performance from Biden to solidify their support for his reelection bid. Despite largely succeeding throughout the week, his verbal blunders during the press conference raised further doubts among Democrats and prompted ridicule from Trump.
During the press conference, held at the conclusion of a NATO summit in Washington, Biden stressed the importance of NATO unity and took jabs at Trump’s inconsistent stance on the alliance.
Biden reaffirmed his intent to run, asserting his qualifications and previous success against Trump. He cited job creation and legislative accomplishments to counter questions on his fitness and disclosed that he had passed three neurological tests as president.
He passionately addressed gun violence, pointing out the high child mortality rate due to bullets in the U.S. underlining his determination to combat the issue, contrasting it with Trump’s indifference.
Biden denied reports of reducing his activity after 8 p.m., highlighting his recent public appearances and criticizing Trump for his lack of public events compared to his own schedule.
Amid speculation about Harris’ competence, Biden defended her qualifications to be president—a crucial topic given the increasing calls for him to step aside.
At a campaign stop in North Carolina, Harris praised Biden’s resilience and achievements, emphasizing the importance of continued efforts to win the upcoming election.
Biden also commended Harris for her advocacy post the Supreme Court’s decision on abortion, emphasizing her skills as a prosecutor and senator.
The president appeared confident discussing Russia’s war in Ukraine, asserting his readiness to converse with world leaders while noting Putin’s challenges due to the ongoing conflict.
Biden concluded by highlighting NATO’s growth and strength since his tenure, arguing that allies’ increased defense expenditures were due to collective choices rather than Trump’s pressure. He pointed to NATO’s commitment to defense production as evidence of strengthened alliances.
Biden dismissed concerns from European allies about his candidacy, claiming their encouragement to defeat Trump.
Despite his verbal gaffes, Biden projected determination and confidence in his ability to continue leading the country and maintain international alliances.