Context:

A new book reveals alarming details about former President Joe Biden's declining health during his presidency, highlighting discussions among his aides about the possibility of him needing a wheelchair if reelected. The book claims there was a significant decline in Biden's physical and mental acuity, which was a major reason for his limited press interactions and seclusion from his staff. Despite these concerns, the White House attempted to conceal his condition to avoid political fallout during a challenging reelection campaign against Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Trump faced criticism for accepting a luxury jet gift from Qatar, which was seen as ethically questionable due to Qatar's links to terrorism. The book also uncovers internal frustrations within Biden’s team, with advisers voicing anger over his decision to run again despite his health issues, which they felt jeopardized the campaign and his well-being.

Dive Deeper:

• Former President Joe Biden's health was reportedly in such decline that aides discussed the potential need for a wheelchair if he pursued a second term, as outlined in a new book by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson.

• The book describes Biden's physical deterioration, specifically spinal degeneration, and the White House's efforts to hide his condition to maintain a strong public image during his reelection campaign against Donald Trump.

• Biden's campaign faced internal turmoil, with advisers expressing deep frustration at his decision to run again despite his deteriorating health, believing it risked both his life and the election outcome.

• Concurrently, Donald Trump was criticized for accepting a $400 million luxury jet from Qatar, a country with ties to terrorism, raising ethical concerns and potential security threats due to possible hidden devices on the plane.

• Despite the backlash, Trump defended the acceptance of the jet, arguing it was financially savvy, while critics, including conservative figures, labeled the deal as ethically dubious and damaging to his presidency.

• Biden's health issues were kept from the public eye, with his White House doctor emphasizing the need for rest to avoid life-threatening situations, particularly after falls that could necessitate wheelchair use.

• High-profile figures, like George Clooney, who supported Biden, were reportedly disappointed, with Clooney even publicly urging Biden to withdraw from the race due to concerns over his fitness for office.