There was undeniably a lot at stake for the US president during the press conference that concluded this week’s NATO summit in Washington. Perhaps one of 81-year-old Biden’s most important performances during his long political career.
The heavily criticized debate against Donald Trump two weeks ago has turned his presidential campaign into complete chaos. Biden’s ability to lead the country for four more years has been questioned, as has his ability to win first against the Republican candidate this fall. The questions surrounding his health have taken up large parts of the White House press conferences. And this week’s NATO summit has been marred by world leaders’ possible concern for Biden’s well-being.
Several Democrats have demanded that Biden prove he has what it takes and that the disastrous debate night was just a fluke. Many therefore saw the press conference as the big test, as he would be forced to answer questions without a prepared script.
The NATO leaders caught their breath
Afterwards, Biden received praise from some for his detailed answers on foreign policy issues. Others believed that the president was unable to argue how he will now be able to win against Trump.
What got the most attention were the president’s fads, which are not uncommon. This time, however, the misstatements came very ill-timed. Kamala Harris was called “Vice President Trump”. A few hours earlier, the entire NATO summit held its breath when Biden introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with the words: “Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin.”
The campaign and the White House said afterward they were satisfied — but not all Democrats were convinced the crisis could now be added to the docket.
The crisis is not over
Throughout the day, new reports emerged of members of Congress turning their backs on the president and urging him to abandon his candidacy. As soon as the press conference was over, another one came. It was followed by two more.
The crisis for Biden is therefore not over. It is not yet known how many more will join the growing crowd who are convinced that Trump can move towards a landslide victory, but there will be more. Nor is there any indication that Biden actually cares about their concerns.
The only thing that is really certain is that the president will not step aside voluntarily.