Biden Meets With Czech PM and Iraqi Leader
On Monday, US President Joe Biden met with Iraqi Prime Minister Shia Al-Sudani for a brief photo op in front of reporters to discuss their bilateral meeting. The meeting was closely watched by the international community, with many wondering how the new American leader would handle such a diplomatic encounter. However, the media attention quickly turned to Biden's use of note cards during the briefing.
As can be seen in photos and videos of the event, it was clear that Biden needed note cards even for such a brief interaction. It was also noted that the President appeared to be slurring his words and had trouble speaking smoothly, despite reading off the notes. Additionally, some deemed it disrespectful when he checked his watch while the Iraqi leader was speaking. His staff also hastily ended the event when reporters attempted to ask questions.
The main focus of the scrutiny was the apparent detailed cheat sheet that was visible to photographers during the photo op. It was clear that Biden was operating solely from a script, which raised questions about his ability to lead without assistance. The script even contained an all-caps stage direction on when to pause for the translator, which was later followed by Biden during his remarks. This further suggested that the President was not able to function without being provided with a predetermined set of instructions.
Biden cheat sheet for Iraq PM meeting caught on camera — including instructions to ‘pause’ https://t.co/WJ950tZRiO pic.twitter.com/ix4qwll3PX
— New York Post (@nypost) April 15, 2024
These revelations only added to the concerns that have been raised about Biden's cognitive abilities. The need for note cards and a detailed script during a short, public appearance raises questions about his capacity to lead the country effectively. Critics pointed out that a leaders should be able to think on their feet and speak confidently without relying on a script. It also raised the question of who is truly running the White House if Biden is unable to function without such guidance.
This incident was not Biden's first brush with the need for a cheat sheet. He has been caught with notes in the past, including during private fundraisers, where such aids are not expected to be necessary. This incident also drew attention to Biden's policies that often seem to undermine American allies. The prime minister's lack of need for notes during his remarks only highlighted the stark contrast between the two leaders.
The use of cheat sheets and difficulty in speaking without a script reflects poorly on the President, particularly when representing the United States on the global stage. The question arises as to how foreign leaders perceive Biden and his ability to handle important meetings and negotiations. This incident, along with his past slip-ups, may also raise doubts about the strength and stability of the Biden administration.
Biden — slurring as he reads directly from his pre-written notes — takes a victory lap over Iran’s attack on Israel pic.twitter.com/49LHHNVpUm
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) April 15, 2024
Some experts and observers have also pointed out that this incident may further fuel speculation about the President's cognitive decline. This is especially concerning for a leader who holds the most powerful position in the country. It is essential for leaders to be fully competent and capable of handling situations on their own. The reliance on a script and notes during a simple photo op only adds to the concerns and brings the issue to the forefront of political discourse.
The President's team has yet to comment on the incident, but it has sparked a larger conversation about how the administration is functioning behind the scenes. As questions continue to be raised about Biden's ability to lead, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact his presidency moving forward. For now, the public can only watch and analyze the President's performance and the decisions made by his administration.