Washington, D.C. – President Joe Biden’s appearance at a White House concert celebrating the Juneteenth holiday has sparked concern after he appeared to remain motionless for an extended period. The event, held ahead of next week’s national holiday, featured energetic dancing by Vice President Kamala Harris, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, and other attendees, while the President stood still for over 20 seconds.
Footage from the event shows Philonise Floyd, brother of the late George Floyd, who was standing next to the President, noticing Biden’s stillness and placing his arm around him in a supportive gesture. The White House has reiterated that the 81-year-old President remains a capable leader, despite critiques suggesting that many of the sources in a Wall Street Journal report were predominantly Republicans.
President Biden’s age has become a point of discussion as he campaigns for a second term, which would see him potentially serve until the age of 86. In response to concerns about his cognitive health, Biden has affirmed that his memory is “fine.”
The Juneteenth celebration on Monday featured performances by Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle. During the event, President Biden emphasized the significance of Black history in America, stating, “Black history is American history.”
The President also issued a warning about efforts to restrict voting rights, indirectly referencing some of his Republican opponents by saying that “old ghosts” in new forms are attempting to limit freedoms. The concert, emceed by comedian and actor Roy Wood Jr., highlighted several policy achievements of the Biden administration, including the capping of insulin prices and the forgiveness of student debt.
In 2021, President Biden signed legislation making June 19, or Juneteenth, a federal holiday. Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved individuals in the United States were informed of their freedom, over two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
The event’s political undertones were clear, with the Biden administration using the platform to showcase its accomplishments and address ongoing social issues. As the President seeks re-election, his health and capacity to serve continue to be focal points of public and political scrutiny.
