Vice President Kamala Harris recently released a summary of her medical records, prepared by her White House physician, Dr. Joshua Simmons. According to the report, Harris is a healthy 59-year-old female with a medical history of seasonal allergies and urticaria, also known as hives. She has been managing her allergies with over-the-counter medications and has been undergoing allergen immunotherapy for her hives for the past three years. Despite her medical history, Harris has never experienced severe symptoms, angioedema, or anaphylaxis related to her allergies.
In addition to her medical history, the report highlighted Harris’ lifestyle habits, stating that she maintains a healthy diet, engages in regular daily aerobics and core strength training, and drinks alcohol occasionally in moderation while abstaining from tobacco use. Dr. Simmons concluded that Harris possesses the physical and mental resiliency required to fulfill the duties of the Presidency, including serving as Chief Executive, Head of State, and Commander in Chief. Harris’s last medical examination in April was deemed unremarkable, with routine exams and bloodwork showing normal results, aside from mild sun damage in sun-exposed areas of her skin.
Presidential candidates typically release their medical records to the public, and sitting presidents often undergo annual examinations. While former President Donald Trump previously pledged to release his medical records, he has not done so yet. Trump’s most recent medical report, posted on his Truth Social account in November 2023, declared him to be in excellent health, with normal results from various exams, but lacked specific details such as blood test results, blood pressure readings, weight, medical conditions, or medications.
Amid concerns about President Joe Biden’s age during his re-election campaign, the focus has shifted to Trump in the context of Harris’s campaign. Harris’s campaign has highlighted Trump’s age and health, questioning what would happen if he were to become incapacitated as president, leaving his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, to assume the duties of the presidency. An ad released by Harris’s campaign this month features clips of Trump appearing to slur his words during an event, with a Fox News host commenting on his performance, suggesting that the former president may be “off his game.”
Overall, the release of Vice President Kamala Harris’s medical records sheds light on her overall health and fitness level, reassuring the public of her ability to fulfill the duties of the presidency if necessary. The report underscores Harris’s commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and responsible habits, all of which contribute to her physical and mental well-being. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the focus on candidates’ health and readiness for office remains a significant aspect of the political discourse, with past and present presidential candidates sharing their medical histories for public scrutiny and assessment.