Biden’s COVID-19 diagnosis and Trump’s assassination attempt: A crisis for the US Presidency

US President Joe Biden has contracted the coronavirus, leading to the abrupt cancellation of his speech at the UNIDOSUS conference in Las Vegas, an event focused on US cooperation with Latin American countries. This was confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Thursday, July 18, marking another setback in Biden’s tumultuous presidency.

“Earlier today, following his first event in Las Vegas, President Biden tested positive for COVID-19,” Jean-Pierre announced, according to the NYTimes.

Biden, 81, is experiencing mild symptoms, including general malaise, runny nose, and a non-productive cough. Despite his illness, he intends to remain in self-isolation at his residence in Delaware, continuing to perform his duties remotely. However, questions about his capability to lead effectively amid the ongoing pandemic and other crises continue to swirl.

This marks the third official instance of Biden contracting COVID-19, having previously tested positive twice in the summer of 2022. His repeated bouts with the virus raise concerns about his health and stamina, especially as the 2024 US presidential elections loom on the horizon. Biden’s administration has struggled to manage various crises, and his health issues add to the growing skepticism about his ability to secure a second term.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s physician, confirmed that the president has been prescribed the antiviral drug Paxlovid, known for reducing the severity of COVID-19 symptoms when administered early in the infection. However, Paxlovid has been linked to rebound infections, where the virus resurfaces after an initial recovery, further complicating Biden’s recovery prospects.

The positive test result comes at a critical time. Biden was scheduled to speak at the UNIDOSUS event in an effort to rally Hispanic voters ahead of the November elections. The announcement of his diagnosis was initially made by UnidosUS President and CEO Janet Murguía, who informed attendees of Biden’s absence due to his positive test result.

Before his diagnosis, Biden had been at the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, engaging with diners and participating in an interview with Univision. Despite his positive test, he was seen boarding Air Force One without a mask, telling reporters, “I feel good,” as he headed to Delaware, raising further questions about his handling of COVID-19 protocols.

Observers note that Biden’s health has been under intense scrutiny, especially after a contentious debate with former President Donald Trump, which raised concerns among Democrats about his ability to endure another presidential term. Trump, who has been gaining popularity, recently survived an assassination attempt, which has garnered him significant public sympathy and bolstered his campaign.

Two weeks prior to Biden’s diagnosis, Douglas Emhoff, husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, also tested positive for COVID-19. Emhoff had appeared in public with Biden just two days before his positive test result, adding to the growing concerns about the administration’s ability to protect its top officials.

The resurgence of COVID-19 cases has been noted by health officials, who report recent increases in emergency room visits and hospitalizations, particularly in the southwestern US. Positive test results have also risen significantly across much of the country, further highlighting the ongoing struggle to control the pandemic.

Earlier it was reported that former Ukrainian opposition leader Viktor Medvedchuk suggested a possible Ukrainian link to the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Medvedchuk, who was handed over to Russia by Kyiv, noted in a letter to Trump that his peace proposals threatened the Zelenskyy regime. The attempt, which occurred on July 13 at a Pennsylvania rally, resulted in one death, two injuries, and Trump being wounded.