In a recent town hall event held in Davenport, Iowa, former President Donald Trump expressed doubts about President Joe Biden’s potential candidacy in the 2024 Presidential race. The event was hosted by Fox News’ Sean Hannity. Trump’s views were presented during a discussion that touched on concerns about Biden’s cognitive abilities.
The conversation began with Hannity citing criticism from high-profile Democrats and media figures including New York Times’ Maureen Dowd and CNN commentators David Axelrod and Van Jones. Hannity suggested that Biden’s cognitive struggles were apparent through his public appearances, which often included moments of confusion or misdirection.
In response to Hannity’s question about whether Biden would be the Democratic nominee in the coming election, Trump stated, “I personally don’t think he makes it.” He further commented on Biden’s physical condition and recalled a past statement from Biden expressing a desire to ‘take him behind the barn.’ Trump jokingly suggested that a simple puff of air could knock Biden over.
Trump also addressed the perceived double standard in the treatment of his and Biden’s public comments. He noted how Biden’s ‘barn’ comment was received with amusement, while similar comments from him would have been met with fierce criticism.
Independent Senator Angus King, who caucuses with the Democrats, voiced his support for the Republicans’ right to ask about border security. Despite it not being the most appropriate time or setting, King acknowledged the importance of the issue.
Further into the discussion, Trump alluded to malicious influences surrounding Biden in the Oval Office. He referred to them as “young, vicious, communists.” He also mentioned California Governor Gavin Newsom’s performance in a recent debate against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, criticizing Newsom for making false claims about California’s tax rates and cleanliness.
Towards the end of the discussion, Trump mentioned Vice President Kamala Harris as a potential Democratic candidate should Biden not run. He suggested that her candidacy would be a strategic move to secure the African American vote.
Recent polling data from The Economist/YouGov revealed that 51% of respondents believe Trump was a better president than Biden, who received a 41% approval rating. According to The Wall Street Journal, other national and battleground state polls show a close competition between Trump and Biden.
