In a three-page letter to President Biden and his physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Rep. Ronny Jackson, a White House physician turned House lawmaker demanded that Biden submit to a drug test before the Thursday CNN Presidential Debate with former President Trump. Jackson emphasized the importance of debates in providing critical insight into candidates’ policy positions, leadership qualities, and ability to perform under pressure. He argued that American citizens must have confidence in the President’s ability to perform their duties free of performance-enhancing drugs or mood-altering medications.
Citing a recent Wall Street Journal report that raised concerns about Biden’s sharpness at the age of 81, Jackson stressed the need for a drug test to ensure the President’s ability to fulfill his duties as Commander in Chief. He also brought up special counsel Robert Hur’s assessment of Biden’s handling of classified information, expressing concern about the President’s cognitive abilities. Polls have shown that a significant number of voters have concerns about Biden’s age, with many questioning his ability to effectively carry out the duties of the presidency.
Jackson accused Biden of using performance-enhancing drugs during the State of the Union address, pointing to his behavior during the speech as evidence. He highlighted that previous requests for Biden to undergo a cognitive exam had been ignored, leading to concerns about the President’s mental and physical fitness for duty. Jackson compared Biden’s refusal to submit to a cognitive exam with Trump’s precedent of demonstrating sound mental abilities during his presidency.
Before being elected to the House of Representatives, Jackson served as the White House physician under both Trump and former President Obama. While Jackson’s spokesperson stated that the call for drug testing was specific to Biden due to concerns about changes in his demeanor, White House spokesman Andrew Bates dismissed Jackson’s comments by comparing him to a character from “The Simpsons” known for questionable medical practices. The issue of drug testing prior to debates has raised questions about the candidates’ health and ability to perform under pressure.
As the debate between Biden and Trump approaches, the demand for a drug test has become a point of contention. Jackson’s letter has reignited debates about the President’s health and cognitive abilities, with concerns about Biden’s age and mental sharpness coming to the forefront. Jackson’s insistence on a drug test underscores the importance of ensuring that the President is fit to carry out the responsibilities of the office. The upcoming debate will likely be watched closely by voters and political analysts to assess the candidates’ performance in an unscripted and high-pressure environment.
