Behind Closed Doors: The Final Years of Biden's Presidency

The last two years of Joe Biden's presidency were marked by a significant shift in how his inner circle operated. During this time, several Cabinet members found themselves increasingly isolated from the president. This change was not just about physical distance but also about the flow of information. Some Cabinet secretaries reported that their access to Biden dropped sharply in 2024. Instead of briefing the president directly, they often had to relay information to senior White House aides, who then passed it on to Biden. This situation raised eyebrows and sparked questions. One Cabinet member wondered if this setup was a way to control what information reached the president and influence his decisions. The idea that Biden was still making the final calls seemed questionable when his inner circle was so heavily involved in shaping the information he received. A new book, set to be released on May 20, delves into these issues. It reveals that despite signs of Biden's declining health, his closest aides and family pushed forward with his 2024 reelection bid. The book is based on over 200 interviews, mostly with Democratic insiders, conducted after the 2024 election. The authors highlight that even before Biden's poor debate performance in June 2024, there were clear indications of his deteriorating condition. These signs were either ignored or brushed off. The book also discusses the private concerns of Biden's aides about his health. There were discussions about whether he would need a wheelchair for his second term and an incident where he didn't recognize a famous actor, George Clooney, at a fundraiser. These details paint a picture of a president whose health was a growing concern, even among those closest to him. Cabinet members shared their observations about Biden's behavior. One secretary noted that Biden could only be productive for about four to six hours a day. Another mentioned that Biden seemed disoriented and out of touch during a rare meeting. The staff's approach to shielding Biden from bad news, including information about his own deterioration, was seen as problematic. One Cabinet member even criticized the staff for not being honest with the president about his declining health. The book's release has sparked a response from Biden's camp. They argue that the evidence shows Biden was an effective president and that his health did not impede his ability to make crucial decisions. This back-and-forth highlights the differing perspectives on Biden's presidency and the challenges he faced in his final years.