U.S. President Biden tests positive for Covid-19
The White House announced that President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that the president, who is 81 years old, is vaccinated and boosted. This marks the third time Mr. Biden has tested positive for Covid-19.
Earlier on Wednesday, President Biden was seen visiting supporters in Las Vegas and speaking at an event. However, he canceled a scheduled campaign speech later in the night due to his illness. The positive test comes amid increasing pressure for him to step aside due to concerns over his age.
US media reports indicate that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Majority Leader Hakeem Jefferies have privately met with President Biden to express their concerns about the potential negative impact of his candidacy on other House and Senate races.
Jean-Pierre stated that the president plans to isolate at his home in Delaware while continuing to fulfill all of his duties. Dr. Kevin O'Connor, President Biden's physician, reported that the president presented with upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and a cough, and has been given his first dose of Paxlovid.
Despite feeling fine during his first event of the day, President Biden tested positive later on. He expressed gratitude for the well wishes on X/Twitter and assured the public that he would continue working to serve the American people while recovering. (ILKHA)