Ex-Biden Staffer Calls Out "Faux Outrage" over WSJ Report on President's Mental Health

Michael LaRosa, former press secretary to Jill Biden, slams Democratic backlash against Wall Street Journal story claiming President Joe Biden is showing "signs of slipping."

**Paragraph 1:** Amid concerns raised by the Wall Street Journal about President Biden's mental acuity, a former high-ranking Biden administration staffer has criticized Democrats for their vehement rejection of the news outlet's anonymous sources. Michael LaRosa, who previously served as Jill Biden's press secretary and as a special assistant to the president, denounced the "faux outrage" over the issue of anonymous sources.

**Paragraph 2:** LaRosa argued that news organizations such as the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Post are not mouthpieces for the Democratic Party. He emphasized that they should maintain their independence and not be beholden to any political entity.

**Paragraph 3:** The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this week that sources in private meetings with President Biden have witnessed instances of decline in his mental sharpness. The White House and several Democratic lawmakers have refuted these claims, criticizing the use of anonymous sources.

**Paragraph 4:** LaRosa, however, questioned why the White House could not find reputable individuals who could vouch for the president's cognitive abilities in an unguarded and genuine manner. He mentioned potential sources such as former President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former President Bill Clinton, or even First Lady Jill Biden.

**Paragraph 5:** LaRosa suggested that Democrats who offer unfiltered and candid assessments of the president's mental state may face repercussions. He alluded to the risks involved for those who deviate from the approved narrative.

**Paragraph 6:** LaRosa emphasized that the White House should seek out influential voices who can provide genuine and unadulterated accounts of the president's capabilities. He questioned why the White House would dismiss or reject quotes from such prominent individuals.

**Paragraph 7:** LaRosa noted that it is common practice for news organizations to use anonymous sources in their reporting. He maintained that the Wall Street Journal's use of these sources does not invalidate the substance of their claims.

**Paragraph 8:** Despite the controversy surrounding the sources, the White House has maintained that President Biden is a sharp and capable leader. They have cited statements from Republican colleagues and nonpartisan experts to support their stance.

**Paragraph 9:** The Wall Street Journal's report has sparked ongoing debate about the president's mental health and the transparency of the White House. The issue is likely to remain a topic of discussion in the coming months.

**Paragraph 10:** LaRosa's comments highlight the growing scrutiny faced by the Biden administration regarding the president's cognitive abilities. The White House will need to address these concerns effectively to maintain public confidence in President Biden's leadership.