Democratic Divide over Biden’s Mental Health and Age – Obama Adviser David Axelrod Faces Backlash

Democratic Divide over Biden’s Mental Health and Age – Obama Adviser David Axelrod Faces Backlash

A deep divide within the Democratic Party's top ranks has been exposed over President Joe Biden's decision to seek re-election. A new book claims that concerns, disagreements, and a culture of quiet opposition have developed within the party over Biden’s age and mental fitness. The book, titled "Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again", is authored by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios’s Alex Thompson.

Outspoken Criticism and Backlash Toward Obama Adviser

Barack Obama’s former adviser, David Axelrod, has repeatedly called Biden’s age a major political issue. In an interview with The New York Times, Axelrod said:

“The presidency is a tremendously taxing job, and the reality is that by the end of a second term, Biden will be close to 90 — and that’s a major issue.”

Following this statement, Biden’s former Chief of Staff Ron Klain reportedly called Axelrod to sternly warn him. Klain argued that Biden is the only person who has defeated Trump, and unless there’s a clear alternative, asking him to step aside would be irresponsible.

Biden’s Age and a “Culture of Secrecy”

The book claims that there were internal concerns within the Biden administration about his mental health and capabilities. However, Biden’s inner circle chose to strategically avoid making such issues public.

Axelrod had his doubts from the beginning. The book notes that during a private meeting with Biden in 2018, Axelrod was "stunned" by the impact of Biden’s age. Still, he advised Biden at the time to present his age not as a weakness but as a symbol of experience.

Open Criticism on Social Media

In 2023, following poor poll results from key battleground states, Axelrod publicly called on Biden to step aside. He posted:

“Only @JoeBiden can make this decision… but is it the wise one? Is it in the best interest of the country?”

In response, Ron Klain again publicly criticized Axelrod, saying:

“The person who called Biden ‘Mr. Magoo’ in 2019 is still at it.”

(Note: Mr. Magoo is a nearly blind cartoon character known for his comical blunders.)

Biden’s Reaction and Silent Support Within the Party

The book states that Biden privately referred to Axelrod as a “prick” in response to his comments, a remark that was later leaked by Politico journalist Jonathan Martin.

However, Axelrod reportedly received quiet support from some top Democratic leaders who, while not speaking out publicly, were concerned about Biden’s candidacy—particularly in light of the upcoming election battle against Trump.

White House Response

A spokesperson for Biden told Fox News Digital:

“There’s nothing in this book that proves President Biden has failed in his duties. In reality, Joe Biden continues to lead the country as a capable and compassionate leader.”