President Biden, who celebrated his 81st birthday on Monday with a simple family gathering, is gearing up for the challenging electoral year ahead. Despite keeping festivities low-key and away from the public eye, this moment highlights his most significant campaign responsibility – his advancing age and, along with it, the perception among voters that there has been a decline in his physical and mental fitness.
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On Monday morning, while presiding over the annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon, Biden playfully confused pop star Britney Spears and Taylor Swift. Referring to the National Thanksgiving Turkey, he remarked, “It’s hard to get tickets for the Redemption Tour or Britney’s tour – it’s too hot in Brazil right now,” alluding to Spears, currently on her Brazil leg of the tour, confusing her with Swift. He also cracked jokes about his age, telling the audience, “I just want you to know, being 60 is hard – hard.” And when celebrating his 76th anniversary, he humorously claimed he was “not there in the first edition.” Later, he shared a picture on his Instagram feed, featuring him blowing out birthday candles with the caption, “No room for candles on your 146th birthday!”,”I just want you to know, that being 60 is hard – hard.” And when celebrating his 76th anniversary, he humorously claimed he was “not there in the first edition.” Later, he shared a picture on his Instagram feed, featuring him blowing out birthday candles with the caption, “No room for candles on your 146th birthday!”
White House and campaign officials privately acknowledge that age is a factor, actively working to address potential concerns and project strength for both Biden and the campaign. Biden was prescribed custom orthotics this year to aid his walking, as a result of findings in his annual physical examination revealing a “stiff gait.” In recent months, he has started using small stairs more frequently when boarding and disembarking Air Force One.
During the holiday break in Delaware, Biden also attempted to pass by journalists on a bike ride, occasionally stopping to take questions while wearing a helmet. (The President is an avid user of Peloton at the White House.)
Biden is already the oldest president in history, surpassing Ronald Reagan, who was 77 at the end of his second term. If Biden will win 86 at the end of his second term. Trump, who will be around 83 at that time, would become the oldest elected president in history if he secures the nomination and wins.
happy birthday Mr President