An unexpected setback
US President Joe Biden has faced a new setback during his rocky re-election campaign. While campaigning in the crucial state of Nevada, he tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms, although he does not have a fever, according to the White House.
Event cancellation and concern
This diagnosis forced Biden to cancel a campaign event and temporarily halt his activities while he secluded himself at his residence in Delaware. This came as pressure has mounted for him to drop out of the November presidential campaign, with leading figures in the Democratic Party publicly urging him to give up his place, including influential lawmaker Adam Schiff.
Disappointment and hope
Janet Murguía, president of UnidosUS, a major Latino organization, was the first to announce that Biden had covid-19. She explained that the president was disappointed not to be able to attend the event, but expressed his desire to participate in the future. Murguía conveyed Biden’s message, assuring that they would have the opportunity to hear it in person later.
Health status and medical considerations
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that Biden, vaccinated and with two booster doses against Covid-19, is experiencing mild symptoms and will return to his residence in Delaware. The president’s doctor explained that he had mild respiratory symptoms and general discomfort, so he was administered a test that came back positive. Despite this, his respiratory rate is normal and he does not have significant fever.
Pressure and possible resignation
Pressure for Biden to abandon his campaign has increased since his debate performance with rival Donald Trump in late June. Biden’s difficulty communicating effectively and convincingly has led to internal calls for him to withdraw, with Congressman Adam Schiff among those who have expressed doubts about Biden’s ability to handle the campaign. These calls add to the uncertainties expressed by other members of the Democratic Party, including the former speaker of the Lower House, Nancy Pelosi.