President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19, the White House announced on Wednesday. Despite being fully vaccinated and boosted, Biden is experiencing mild respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and a non-productive cough. He will return to Delaware to self-isolate while continuing to fulfill his presidential duties remotely.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that Biden remains in good spirits and will continue working during his isolation. She assured the public that the White House will provide regular updates on his health status.
Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s physician, reported that the President is exhibiting mild symptoms and general malaise. After initially feeling well enough to attend an event, Biden later tested positive for COVID-19 through point-of-care testing. His vital signs remain normal, and he has begun treatment with Paxlovid while awaiting PCR confirmation.
The cancellaion of Biden’s event in Las Vegas comes at a time when he is facing increasing pressure from donors and elected Democrats to reconsider this reelection campaign. This follows a challenging debate performance against former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump.
Jeffrey Katzenberg, a co-chair of Biden’s reelection campaign, has reportedly warned that donor contributions have decreased significantly due to concerns about Biden’s chances of defeating Trump in the upcoming election.