Back in June 2020, the mainstream media appeared to make a concerted effort to paint Trump as physically unfit when a video surfaced of him descending a ramp at West Point slowly. This narrative gained momentum with media outlets attempting to compare this with clips of Biden running, projecting an image of vitality.
The media’s insistence on this narrative could be perceived as an attempt to divert attention from Biden’s own physical and mental challenges. Following the video incident, The New York Times headlined an article, “Trump’s Halting Walk Down Ramp Raises New Health Questions.”
Chris Cillizza, formerly of CNN, discussed “why the Donald Trump-West Point ramp story actually matters,” and Biden himself drew attention to it, remarking, “Look at how he steps and look at how I step. Watch how I run up ramps and he stumbles down ramps. Come on.”
Fast forward two-and-a-half years, and we have witnessed what many perceive as a deterioration in Biden’s physical and cognitive health. Despite this, the media seems to insist that everything is under control. This claim is viewed with skepticism by some, especially after the media’s previous portrayal of Trump as severely ill contrasted with a robust Biden.
Biden’s own physical mishaps and moments of seeming confusion have been frequent, the most recent example being his meeting with Israel President Isaac Herzog, where he appeared unresponsive. The Washington Post cited a study by a University of Pennsylvania professor indicating that Biden has already outlived about 59 percent of American-born men in his age group, while Trump has outlived 47 percent of his. According to this analysis, both men are in relatively good health for their age and are likely to survive a second term if elected.
However, these figures do not address the stark contrast between Biden’s and Trump’s apparent physical and mental health. Though only three years apart, Trump seemingly exhibits more vigor and mental clarity than Biden. The Washington Post’s insistence on their comparability appears questionable, especially when Biden’s performance is assessed on abstract statistical data rather than concrete physical or cognitive evidence.
Perhaps it would be more effective if the media were transparent about Biden’s health challenges and encouraged a transition to younger, healthier, and mentally sharp leadership for the upcoming election. Despite polling data indicating Democrats’ concerns about Biden’s health and suitability for another term, the party appears committed to backing him as long as he remains in the race. This stance persists even in the face of growing public skepticism.
