Fact Check: Biden's inner circle tried to conceal his cognitive decline from the public.

Published July 9, 2025

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VERDICT

Partially True

# Fact Check: "Biden's inner circle tried to conceal his cognitive decline from the public." ## What We Know A forthcoming book titled *Original Sin:...

Fact Check: "Biden's inner circle tried to conceal his cognitive decline from the public."

What We Know

A forthcoming book titled Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, authored by CNN's Jake Tapper and Axios reporter Alex Thompson, claims to detail extensive instances of President Joe Biden's cognitive and physical decline, along with efforts by his aides to conceal these issues from the public (NPR). The book suggests that Biden's aides were aware of his deteriorating condition, with reports indicating that discussions about potentially using a wheelchair for Biden occurred during his 2024 presidential campaign due to his physical limitations (BBC).

The book also highlights an incident at a fundraiser where Biden reportedly failed to recognize actor George Clooney, which has been interpreted as a sign of cognitive decline (NPR). David Axelrod, a prominent Democratic strategist, described the details in the book as "troubling" and indicative of a deeper issue within Biden's inner circle (NPR).

In response to the book's claims, a spokesperson for Biden's office stated that evidence of aging does not equate to mental incapacity and emphasized that Biden had been an effective president (BBC).

Analysis

The claims made in Original Sin are supported by anecdotal evidence and the observations of political insiders like David Axelrod, who has expressed concern over Biden's public appearances and the management of his schedule (NPR). However, it is important to note that the book relies heavily on anonymous sources, which can raise questions about the reliability of the information presented. Anonymous sourcing can sometimes lead to speculation rather than substantiated claims, as it lacks the accountability of on-the-record statements.

Moreover, Biden's aides have publicly refuted the allegations, arguing that while aging may have resulted in physical changes, it does not imply a decline in mental capacity (BBC). This rebuttal suggests a significant divide between the narrative presented in the book and the official stance of Biden's team, which emphasizes his effectiveness in office.

The credibility of the authors, Tapper and Thompson, is generally high given their established careers in journalism. However, the context of the book's release—timed with political tensions and upcoming elections—could introduce bias, as it may serve specific political narratives (NPR, BBC).

Conclusion

The claim that Biden's inner circle attempted to conceal his cognitive decline from the public is Partially True. While there are credible reports and insider accounts suggesting that there were concerns about Biden's cognitive and physical health, the extent and nature of any alleged cover-up remain contested. The responses from Biden's aides indicate a strong pushback against the narrative of concealment, framing it instead as a misinterpretation of aging effects. Thus, while there are elements of truth in the claim, the overall picture is nuanced and reflects differing perspectives on Biden's health and the actions of his inner circle.

Sources

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