President Biden said in an interview Friday that he has not undergone cognitive tests, but argued that his record as president should be enough proof that he is mentally fit to lead the nation.
He was repeatedly pressed about his cognitive abilities in his first major interview since his disastrous debate performance saw him drop out of the race. ABC News’ George Stephanopoulos pointedly asked him if he would be willing to undergo neurological and cognitive testing.
“I take a cognitive test every day. Every day I take this test. Oh, what am I doing? You know, I’m not just campaigning, I’m running the world,” Mr. Biden told ABC’s George Stephanopoulos.
The line of questioning came after Mr Biden was criticized for his often maneuvering debate performance in which he falters in his speech. Several current and former officials have also expressed concern that moments in which Mr. Biden appears confused or listless have become more frequent.
The White House said Mr. Biden was suffering from a cold the night of the debate. Mr. Biden blamed himself and his pre-debate travel schedule. But a growing number of Democrats and voters have expressed concern about whether Mr. Biden has the mental acuity not only to defeat Mr. Trump, but to serve another four years.
“Have you taken the specific cognitive tests and seen a neurologist, a specialist?” Mr. Stephanopoulos asked Mr. Biden.
“No. Nobody said I should,” Mr. Biden said. “They said I’m good.”
Mr. Biden added that like every president, a White House physician travels with him. His doctor, Dr Kevin O’Connor, said Mr Biden was “fit for duty” after undergoing a physical earlier this year, adding that he had undergone an “extremely detailed” neurological examination that showed no evidence of a stroke. neurological disorders or Parkinson’s disease.
After the debate, Mr. Biden said his doctor looked at him and said, “You’re exhausted.”
Mr. Biden also did not commit to taking a cognitive test in the future to reassure voters. Instead, he issued a challenge to those concerned about his mental state. “Look at me.”
“There is a lot of time in this campaign,” Mr. Biden said.
