President Biden is set to undergo his annual physical exam at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, with the results being closely watched as he seeks reelection at the age of 81. As the oldest president in U.S. history, and potentially being 86 by the end of a second term, voters have expressed concerns about his age, citing his gaffes, coughing, slow walking, and recent tumble off his bicycle. The results of his last physical in February 2023 declared him healthy and fit to handle his White House duties.
Former President Donald Trump, at 77, is the favorite to secure the Republican nomination, setting up a potential November rematch against Mr. Biden. Trump held the record for being the oldest American president to be inaugurated at 70 until Biden broke that record at 78 in 2021. A recent special counsel’s report criticized Biden’s memory, calling it hazy, fuzzy, and faulty, and noting significant limitations. However, Biden has denied these claims, stating that his memory is fine.
Biden’s last physical examination showed that he had a lesion removed from his chest over the previous year, but other results largely matched those from his previous exam in November 2021. His occasional coughing was attributed to acid reflux, while his stiffened gait was due to spinal arthritis, a previously broken foot, and neuropathy in his feet. In 2021, he also had a colonoscopy that identified and removed a 3-millimeter benign-appearing polyp.
Despite reservations from Americans, including Democrats, about Biden seeking a second term, he has continued to campaign for reelection. Polls have shown reluctance towards both Biden and Trump, but that has not stopped them from closing in on their party’s nominations. Biden recently won Michigan’s Democratic primary, but an “uncommitted” campaign organized by activists critical of his handling of the war in Gaza surpassed the margin by which Trump won Michigan in 2016, causing concern for the Biden reelection campaign.
As President Biden undergoes his annual physical exam, the results will provide insight into his overall health and fitness as he seeks reelection. With concerns about his age and health, voters will be closely watching the outcome of the examination to determine his ability to serve another term as president. Despite criticism and skepticism, Biden remains determined to campaign for reelection, facing potential challenges from both within his party and from the Republican nominee.
