President Joe Biden's closest advisers orchestrated an extensive system of protective measures throughout his presidency, managing his public appearances and information access.
According to Breitbart News, a Wall Street Journal investigation involving nearly 50 sources revealed how Biden's aides successfully shielded his declining condition until a pivotal debate performance in July exposed underlying concerns.
The detailed report outlines various measures implemented by White House staff to manage the president's schedule and interactions. These strategies included limiting Biden's exposure to negative press coverage, controlling his daily schedule, and carefully managing his public appearances.
The president's team implemented comprehensive protective measures from the beginning of his term. They adjusted his schedule to accommodate his energy levels, particularly avoiding early morning commitments. White House officials also established strict protocols regarding who could directly communicate with the president.
Cabinet members faced significant restrictions in their access to Biden, with at least one member abandoning attempts to schedule presidential calls. The administration's inner circle maintained tight control over information flow, filtering out unfavorable polling data and news coverage from the president's daily briefings.
Senior staff members frequently provided repeated instructions to the president regarding basic stage directions and meeting protocols. They sought assistance from various specialists, including a voice coach, to address concerns about his speaking capabilities.
Democratic insiders became increasingly worried about Biden's grasp of his electoral standing during the summer months. The president's public statements about polling data often contradicted available evidence, suggesting a disconnect from political reality.
A crucial meeting on July 11 between Biden's advisers and Democratic senators revealed significant disparities between the campaign's internal assessment and public polling data. This disconnect prompted Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to attempt direct communication with the president.
The situation reached a critical point during a July 13 virtual meeting with the New Democrat Coalition. According to lawmakers present, Biden became defensive when questioned about polling data and abruptly ended the call, citing a need to attend church.
The administration established unprecedented controls over presidential communications and daily operations. Staff members carefully managed Biden's interaction with various stakeholders, including Democrat lawmakers, cabinet members, and campaign donors.
These protective measures extended to the president's public appearances, where staff provided extensive assistance, unlike previous administrations. The team's approach included limiting meeting durations to prevent fatigue-related mistakes and maintaining strict control over information sources.
The extent of these protective measures became apparent through various incidents, particularly when Biden struggled to recall previously discussed talking points during meetings. Staff members responded by implementing additional controls over his schedule and interactions.
The Wall Street Journal's investigation has exposed the intricate system of presidential management implemented by Biden's closest advisers. Their efforts to protect and manage the president's public image continued until July's debate performance revealed underlying concerns about his capabilities. These revelations provide insight into the complex dynamics within the White House operation and the measures taken to manage presidential duties.
