Former President Donald Trump released a doctor’s note touting good health as President Joe Biden celebrated his 81st birthday on Monday amid concerns about his age and physical condition.
Signed by Bruce Aronwald of Morristown Medical Group, the memo reported that Trump’s “overall health is excellent” after his most recent exam in mid-September. But at three paragraphs long, the note gave few details, as he pointed by several journalists.
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What the memo did say was that Trump likely improved his vital signs due to weight loss attributed to better diet and daily physical activity during his “rigorous schedule.” The memo also said Trump had “exceptional” scores on cognitive tests, performed within the “normal range” on physical tests and had cardiovascular tests that were “normal,” as well as cancer screening tests that were “all negative.”
Ultimately, the doctor shared the view that Trump “will continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle for years to come” with the former president’s “continued interest in preventative health monitoring and maintenance.”
The note, that Trump himself shared on his Truth Social platform, came as Biden turned 81 overshadowed by questions about his fitness to continue serving as commander in chief. Karine Jean-Pierre, White House press secretary insisted There was “no alarm behind the scenes” when asked how issues surrounding Biden’s age and health could affect his eligibility.
Both Biden and Trump are running in the 2024 elections and seeking a second term. Republican Party primary polls show Trump as the favorite, possibly setting the stage for a 2020 general election rematch even as Trump faces a series of criminal and civil cases in court.
Biden’s tendency to lose his train of thought while speaking, along with moments caught on camera in which he stumbled or fell, have raised concerns about his ability to lead effectively. Biden, already the oldest person to be president, would be 86 at the end of a second term. Trump is 77 years old, but polls don’t reflect as much concern about his age as they do about Biden.
Still, the White House published a health summary from Biden’s doctor in February who stated that the president remained “healthy,” “vigorous” and “in a position to successfully execute the functions of the Presidency.” Doctor Kevin O’Connor also said Biden was being treated for non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF), hyperlipidemia, gastroesophageal reflux, seasonal allergies, peripheral neuropathy of the feet and a stiff gait.
Some Republicans have noted There was no indication that Biden has administered a cognitive test during his presidency and asked him to take one or withdraw from the 2024 race.
