President Joe Biden Tests Covid-19 Positive for a Third Time

President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms, according to the White House.

Karine Jean-Pierre, Biden's press secretary, confirmed that the 81-year-old president, who is vaccinated and boosted, has tested positive for the virus for the third time. Earlier on Wednesday, Biden was in Las Vegas meeting with supporters and delivering a speech before cancelling a campaign event scheduled for later in the evening. His illness comes amidst mounting pressure due to his age and concerns over his candidacy. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Majority Leader Hakeem Jeffries reportedly expressed worries privately that Biden's candidacy could adversely affect other Democratic races.

Jean-Pierre stated that Biden intends to isolate at his home in Delaware while continuing to fulfill his presidential duties remotely. Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, reported that Biden is experiencing mild upper respiratory symptoms and has begun treatment with Paxlovid after testing positive later in the day. In a tweet, Biden thanked everyone for their well-wishes and pledged to continue working for the American people during his recovery. However, another tweet from his account criticized Elon Musk and solicited donations, hinting at ongoing political engagement despite his illness.

Reporters who were with Biden in Las Vegas rushed back to the airport after his diagnosis was announced. Video footage showed Biden boarding Air Force One cautiously but expressing that he felt well. Due to his illness, Biden was unable to deliver a scheduled speech at UnidosUS, a Latino civil rights organization. His Covid-19 diagnosis has also intensified calls for him to withdraw from the presidential race, with nearly two dozen Democratic figures, including Congressman Adam Schiff, suggesting that Biden should consider stepping aside to allow a new candidate to lead the party.

In an interview with BET, Biden acknowledged the calls for him to step down but emphasized that he does not feel it's the right time to pass on leadership, citing the divided state of the nation. However, he also acknowledged that he would consider withdrawing from the race if advised to do so by his doctors due to a medical condition. The situation continues to develop, with Biden's health and political future under scrutiny as the election season progresses.