Joe Biden tests positive for Covid, may pass the presidential torch if...

President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday while traveling in Las Vegas and is experiencing mild symptoms, the White House announced. Biden will self-isolate at his home in Delaware and continue his duties fully, according to Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

Previously, President Joe Biden mentioned he might withdraw from seeking reelection if doctors diagnosed him with a medical condition, a statement that marked the first occasion he hinted at the possibility of not continuing in the White House race. This came amid a call from Representative Adam Schiff of California, a prominent ally, for Biden to "pass the torch."

Biden targets Musk

US President Joe Biden turned his positive COVID-19 test into a political statement targeting Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump.


Shortly after news broke of Biden's diagnosis, he took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to express his frustration. "I'm sick," Biden wrote in his initial post, referencing his current health situation. However, he quickly pivoted to a broader political message, adding, "of Elon Musk and his rich buddies trying to buy this election. And if you agree, pitch in here."

The president's physician, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, reported that Biden, 81, began showing upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose, non-productive cough, and general malaise. Following the positive test, he was prescribed the antiviral drug Paxlovid and has already taken his first dose.

US presidential race

Initially, Biden was set to speak at the UnidosUS event in Las Vegas to garner support from Hispanic voters for the upcoming November election. However, after testing positive, he decided to fly to Delaware, where he planned to spend a long weekend at his Rehoboth Beach home. UnidosUS President and CEO Janet Murguía informed the convention attendees of Biden's positive test, citing his inability to attend the event.

Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden will fly to his home in Delaware, where he will “self-isolate and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during that time.”