Fox News contributor Kellyanne Conway is facing backlash after criticizing former President Joe Biden's age and mental decline, with many pointing out that her comments could apply equally to President Donald Trump. Conway, who served as Trump's 2016 campaign manager and White House adviser, was responding to former first lady Jill Biden's admission that her husband had been "slowing down" due to the demands of the presidency.
Conway's Remarks on Biden's Decline
During a Fox News appearance, Conway stated: "This happens to many of us, right? People that we love fall into decline, physically, mentally. That's OK. That's life. What happens is you have to let them live out their lives quietly in peace and dignity with the family. Enjoy the grandchildren. You don't give the nuclear codes and the presidency of the United States."
Trump's Health Under Scrutiny
Conway's criticism comes amid growing questions about Trump's own health. The president has undergone three "annual" physicals in 13 months and multiple dental visits this year. Medical experts have noted a lack of transparency from the White House regarding his condition. Trump has been observed dozing off in public, delivering rambling speeches, and obsessing over a planned White House ballroom, even interrupting a meeting with oil executives to stare at construction.
Last year, the White House disclosed that Trump has chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition causing poor blood flow and ankle swelling, colloquially known as "cankles." Additionally, visible bruises on his hands have prompted questions; officials attribute them to frequent handshaking and daily aspirin use, though experts remain skeptical.
Cognitive Test Questions
Trump has boasted about taking three cognitive tests, leading to speculation about why such frequent testing is necessary. He insists he "aced" them, and the White House maintains his physicals show good health. However, critics on social media were quick to highlight the irony in Conway's statements.
One user wrote: "Uhmmmm. Who's gonna tell her?" Another commented: "But giving them to the guy who needs to take multiple cognitive decline tests and has a deformed hand for unknown reasons is apparently fine with her." Others noted Trump's recent verbal gaffes, such as referring to the Reflecting Pool as a "lake," "pond," and "thing" during a nine-minute monologue. "He's still got the nuclear codes, @KellyannePolls," one critic tweeted.
Conway's remarks have reignited debates about age and fitness in the White House, with many accusing her of hypocrisy. As one observer put it: "Irony is well and truly dead."
