ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos expressed his apprehensions about President Joe Biden’s ability to complete another term in the White House. These concerns surfaced shortly after his interview with the president on Tuesday, July 9.
A New York City pedestrian, armed with a camera, approached Stephanopoulos, asking if Biden should step down from the 2024 presidential race. “Do you think Biden should step down? You’ve talked to him more than anyone else has lately,” the pedestrian inquired in footage obtained by TMZ.
Stephanopoulos responded, “I don’t think he can serve four more years.” This candid remark quickly went viral, prompting regret from the journalist. “Earlier today, I responded to a question from a passerby. I shouldn’t have,” he later told Puck News. ABC News clarified that Stephanopoulos’ remarks were his personal views and did not represent the network’s stance.
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This incident followed a challenging interview with Biden, where Stephanopoulos addressed rumors of the president’s “cognitive decline” and internal Democratic pressures for him to step aside. “Are you the same man today that you were when you took office three-and-a-half years ago?” Stephanopoulos asked. Biden replied confidently, “In terms of successes, yes.”
Political analyst Ian Bremmer revealed that several world leaders shared concerns about Biden’s capacity to serve another four years. These leaders observed significant changes in Biden’s behavior, including his slowed walking pace and general decline in dynamism. Bremmer stated, “They don’t think he can serve another four years, and that sentiment is shared by every leader I’ve met with at the NATO summit.”
Biden’s recent public gaffes have also contributed to the scrutiny of his fitness for office, providing fodder for his main rival, former President Donald Trump. Trump has capitalized on Biden’s age and missteps as a campaign tool, intensifying the debate over Biden’s suitability for another term.
In response to the viral comment and ensuing media coverage, Stephanopoulos’ regret highlights the delicate nature of public figures voicing personal opinions, especially on such polarizing topics as presidential capability and election readiness.
