Biden’s Juneteenth Freeze Raises Questions About President's Cognitive Abilities

President Joe Biden appeared to freeze during a performance at the Juneteenth celebration at the White House, sparking concerns about his cognitive abilities. The incident has reignited debates about Biden's age and fitness for office as he approaches the 2024 presidential election.

President Joe Biden's appearance at a Juneteenth celebration at the White House on Monday has raised concerns about his cognitive abilities. Biden, 81, was filmed standing motionless while those around him, including Vice President Kamala Harris, clapped and danced to gospel singer Kirk Franklin's music.

The video shows Biden staring blankly and not moving for approximately 30 seconds. Philonise Floyd, the brother of George Floyd whose murder sparked nationwide protests in 2020, noticed the president's demeanor and put his arm around him. Biden then smiled as Floyd leaned in to say something, and they exchanged a few words.

The incident was quickly seized upon by Republicans, who have been questioning the president's age and fitness for office. The Republican National Committee's rapid response account tweeted, "Why isn't Biden moving?" while former President Donald Trump's campaign posted, "Lights are on but no one's home."

The White House has not publicly commented on the incident. However, Biden's mental acuity has been a topic of debate since he took office. In May, The Wall Street Journal published a report detailing instances where the president has demonstrated a lack of clarity in meetings with staff and Congress.

The White House has vigorously defended Biden's mental fitness. Andrew Bates, a White House spokesman, stated, "Congressional Republicans, foreign leaders, and nonpartisan national-security experts have made clear in their own words that President Biden is a savvy and effective leader."

Despite the White House's assurances, Biden has been prone to gaffes throughout his career. In recent months, he has confused the timing of the COVID-19 pandemic, referred to deceased people as being alive, and made inaccurate statements about past conversations with world leaders.

At 81, Biden is the oldest person to serve as president in U.S. history. If re-elected, he will be 86 when his second term ends. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump, is 77 years old.

The incident at the Juneteenth celebration has reignited concerns about whether Biden is fit for office. Concerns over his age and cognitive abilities are likely to remain a central issue in the upcoming presidential election.