In a moment that quickly caught the attention of both the media and the public, President Joe Biden inadvertently claimed to be “in the 20th century” during a statement meant to appeal to Arizona voters. This slip occurred amid a press conference held in the White House Rose Garden, where Biden was joined by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The press conference had its share of chaotic moments, with reporters vying for the President’s attention by shouting questions simultaneously.
NBC News’ Peter Alexander seized a quieter moment to ask the President about his stance on abortion rights in Arizona, especially in light of the state Supreme Court’s recent decision to uphold a pre-statehood law from 1864 that criminalizes nearly all abortions, with a very limited exception. President Biden’s initial response was “Elect me,” followed by the notable gaffe, “I’m in the 20, 20th century.” Quickly realizing the mistake, he corrected himself, emphasizing that he meant the 21st century, and jokingly remarked that Arizona wasn’t even a state back in the 20th century’s earlier years.
This incident adds to the series of public moments where the President has appeared confused or misspoken on important issues, fueling ongoing debates about his age and mental acuity. At 81, Biden holds the record as the oldest president in U.S. history, and concerns over his fitness for office have been a constant theme in public discourse.
His potential second term would end with him at the age of 86, a fact that does not escape the electorate’s scrutiny. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump, 77, frequently contrasts his cognitive capabilities with Biden’s, amidst a political landscape where age and mental fitness have become highly politicized topics. Public opinion, as reflected in various polls, suggests a widespread concern regarding Biden’s capability to effectively fulfill the Presidential role due to these perceived lapses.