A forthcoming book, Original Sin by Alex Thompson and Jake Tapper, reveals troubling details about President Joe Biden’s mental decline during his term, raising questions about his fitness for leadership. As early as 2022, Biden struggled to recall the names of longtime aides like Jake Sullivan and Kate Bedingfield, referring to them vaguely as “Steve” or “Press.” His mix-ups extended to foreign leaders and even the late Rep. Jackie Walorski, whom he called out at an event a month after her death. These lapses, coupled with his 2024 debate performance against Trump, fueled concerns among Democrats, with some, like ex-Commerce Secretary Bill Daley, exploring replacement candidates as early as 2023.

The book highlights a White House effort to shield Biden’s struggles, with senior aides like Mike Donilon—who worked with Biden since 1981—downplaying concerns even after Biden forgot his name in 2019. The special counsel’s decision not to prosecute Biden for hoarding classified documents, citing his “poor memory,” further amplified public scrutiny. As Biden insisted on his capability, the lack of open discussion about his re-election bid among his inner circle raises serious questions about transparency and accountability in American leadership, leaving voters to grapple with the implications of an aging president’s capacity to govern.