Behind closed doors: How Biden’s staff reportedly manages his cognitive decline

Reports have surfaced alleging that White House aides have actively shielded Joe Biden from public scrutiny, particularly in light of his perceived cognitive challenges since the start of his presidency. Citing information from aides, Democratic lawmakers, and donors, a Wall Street Journal investigation has revealed efforts to limit Biden’s public exposure and manage his daily activities to accommodate fluctuations in his mental acuity.

From the outset of Biden’s term in January 2021, White House staff reportedly restricted his in-person interactions, a move initially justified by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, this approach allegedly evolved into a more calculated strategy to minimize moments where Biden might appear disoriented or prone to gaffes. The Wall Street Journal noted that Biden’s daily schedule was adjusted to reflect his “good days and bad days,” with meetings often rescheduled to accommodate his energy levels.

“He has good days and bad days, and today was a bad day, so we’re going to address this tomorrow,” a national security official reportedly told an aide during one such incident. This pattern became increasingly evident as Biden’s public appearances dwindled, and his press conferences became shorter and less frequent compared to past presidents. Reports also indicated that staff members were instructed to keep briefings with the president concise, with some officials, including a cabinet member, allegedly abandoning attempts to schedule direct meetings after repeated refusals.

To address concerns about Biden’s verbal delivery, the White House hired Jeffrey Katzenberg, a Hollywood producer and campaign co-chairman, to work with Biden on improving his speaking voice. Additionally, his staff took steps to avoid presenting him with negative news, instead curating a more favorable selection of daily reports. Critics argue that this insulation from reality further distances Biden from the general public’s concerns, especially as his approval ratings hit a historic low in 2024.

Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates refuted claims that Biden was disconnected from his team, asserting, “President Biden speaks with members of his cabinet daily, and with most members multiple times a week, staying close with them about implementation of key laws and strengthening our national security.” He added that Biden’s administration reflects a “modern” approach where traditional cabinet meetings are less frequent but no less effective.

Despite these defenses, signs of cognitive strain have been apparent throughout his presidency. Joe Biden’s reliance on notecards and oversized instructions has been well-documented. On multiple occasions, Biden was seen misremembering names of foreign dignitaries or stumbling through public addresses. His fall at the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation ceremony and his frequent missteps while boarding Air Force One have fueled ongoing speculation about his health and capacity to lead.

Another notable episode involved Biden’s voluntary interview with Special Counsel Robert Hur regarding his handling of classified documents. While Biden reportedly pushed for the interview to project cooperation, the preparation process was reportedly grueling. Staff members held three-hour prep sessions, during which Biden’s energy levels and memory reportedly fluctuated. A transcript later revealed that he misremembered the year his son Beau died, drawing fresh criticism.

The issue of Biden’s cognitive ability also became a point of contention during his 2024 re-election campaign. Reports suggest that campaign staff went to great lengths to control interactions with Biden, even blocking poll data from being shared directly with him. Instead, information was funneled to his aides, reflecting growing concerns about how he might react. First Lady Jill Biden’s role as a buffer became more pronounced as she was seen guiding him away from reporters and intervening to cut press conferences short.

Critics argue that the administration’s handling of Biden’s public image is symptomatic of larger issues about transparency and accountability. Detractors question the wisdom of protecting a sitting president from reality, especially when those protections seem to be motivated by political self-preservation. Proponents, however, contend that the approach is part of a modern presidency that prioritizes strategic communication over the traditional, unfiltered access once granted to the media and the public.

In response to the allegations, Bates asserted that “President Biden has earned the most accomplished record of any modern commander-in-chief,” emphasizing his role in rebuilding the middle class and advancing significant policy goals. He dismissed criticism that Biden’s limited press exposure was unusual, suggesting it reflected changes in how modern administrations operate rather than an indication of cognitive decline.

Nonetheless, questions persist about the long-term viability of an administration that appears so intent on controlling the narrative. For many observers, the tight management of Biden’s image raises doubts about his ability to perform the duties of his office without such a highly orchestrated support system. These revelations have only intensified scrutiny of his capacity to serve as commander-in-chief as he nears the conclusion of his first term.