During a press briefing on Tuesday, the White House faced questions regarding President Biden’s readiness to handle emergencies after 8 p.m., a time he reportedly prefers to end his day.
Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy asked White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre about President Biden’s ability to respond to a potential late-night crisis, specifically questioning, “Well, he also says he’s sharpest before 8 p.m. So, say that the Pentagon at some point picks up an incoming nuke. It’s 11 p.m. Who do you call? The first lady?”
Jean-Pierre responded by assuring that the president is well-supported by a team dedicated to keeping him informed of any critical developments. She explained that Biden has appointed someone from the National Security Council to relay pertinent and important news, though she did not specify who that person is.
The question of Biden’s availability and decision-making capacity after 8 p.m. arose from a report by The New York Times, which mentioned that Biden told Democratic governors he would avoid scheduling events after 8 p.m. to ensure he gets adequate sleep.
Further probing by Doocy included references to former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy’s observations. McCarthy noted that during his tenure, there were several meetings in the Oval Office attended by the First Lady, Jill Biden. Doocy asked if Jill Biden was making decisions or advising the president in those meetings.
“No, the president is the president of the United States. He makes decisions,” Jean-Pierre asserted.
The briefing also touched on Biden’s commitment to a potential second term. When asked if the president would serve a full second term if elected, Jean-Pierre confirmed, “Yes.”
Doocy pointed out that while Biden claims his health is fine, he joked that “it’s just his brain and that he’s as sharp as before.” Jean-Pierre clarified that Biden was making a “lighthearted joke,” noting, “You know the president. He likes to joke a lot. He’s the same guy who says, ‘I know I look 40,’ right? So, he likes to make jokes.”
Doocy continued to challenge the notion, questioning how Biden’s comment was considered a joke. Jean-Pierre maintained that Biden’s humor is well-received, highlighting his tendency to make such remarks.
Concerns about Biden’s age and fitness for office have been a topic of discussion, especially following his performance during the late June presidential debate against former President Trump. These concerns have persisted for months, with critics questioning his ability to handle the demands of the presidency as he ages.
The press briefing underscored the ongoing scrutiny of President Biden’s capacity to lead, especially in high-stakes, late-night scenarios, and the administration’s efforts to address these concerns with assurances of his capability and humor.