Biden Breaks Silence Post-Debate: Dismisses Health Rumors as ‘One Off Episode’

President Joe Biden sat down for an interview with ABC’s “Good Morning America” co-anchor and “This Week” anchor George Stephanopoulos in Wisconsin on the campaign trail on July 5, 2024. (Photo used with permission of ABC News)

WASHINGTON — In his first televised interview since the presidential debate, President Joe Biden Friday defended his reelection bid, dismissing calls to step aside amid growing concerns about his mental and physical health.

The 22-minute session with ABC News’ George Stephanopoulos occurred as some Democrats urged Biden to suspend his campaign in favor of another nominee. However, Biden attributed his less-than-stellar debate performance on June 27 to exhaustion, labeling it as merely a “bad night.”

“It was a bad episode, no indication of any serious condition,” Biden said. “I was exhausted. I didn’t listen to my instincts in terms of preparing and it was a bad night.”

When pressed on what he would do if urged by allies to leave the campaign, Biden was firm. “I’m not going to answer that question. It’s not going to happen,” he stated. Concerns have persisted among members of Congress and Democratic governors following episodes where Biden appeared confused during the debate.

Biden also reacted to Virginia Sen. Mark Warner’s plans to discuss his campaign’s future with Democratic senators. “Mark is a good man,” Biden said, acknowledging differing perspectives but showing respect for Warner.

Stephanopoulos questioned Biden on his readiness to endure another four years, given his age and health. Biden stood resolute. “I believe so,” he said. “I wouldn’t be running if I didn’t think I did. Look, I’m running again because I think I understand best what has to be done to take this nation to a completely new level.”

Despite pressure to commit to a cognitive exam, Biden instead pointed to his grueling schedule as proof of his capabilities. “I have a cognitive test every single day. Every day I have that test, everything I do,” Biden said. “You know, not only am I campaigning, I’m running the world.”

The interview followed a rally in Madison, Wisconsin, where Biden criticized Donald Trump. Biden argued that the election hinges on character, honesty, and decency. “We’re running against the biggest liar and the biggest threat to our democracy in American history,” Biden asserted, referencing Trump’s controversial statements and actions.

During the rally, Biden itemized his achievements, including student loan debt cancellation, nominating Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, signing a same-sex marriage bill, approving gun safety policies, and enacting comprehensive climate change legislation. “I’m not letting one, 90-minute debate wipe out three-and-a-half years of work,” he stated.

Biden expressed concern over future Supreme Court appointments, stressing the implications if Trump were to make those nominations. “For over two centuries, America’s been a free, democratic nation,” he said. “And I’ll be damned if in the year 2024… I’ll let Donald Trump take this away.”

Following the rally, Biden spoke to reporters at the White House, reiterating his intention to stay in the race and dismissing calls for his withdrawal. Later, Illinois Democratic Rep. Mike Quigley went on MSNBC urging Biden to step aside, citing gratitude for Biden’s service but insisting it was time for new leadership.