Insights from White House Adviser on Biden’s Debate Performance

Bruce Reid, a key adviser at the White House, recently informed House investigators that former President Joe Biden’s performance during a challenging debate stemmed from his extensive experience. Reid, who was the deputy chief of staff for policy, shared this perspective in a detailed interview with the House Oversight Committee. When questioned about voters’ concerns regarding Biden’s mental acuity, Reid expressed confidence in the former president’s cognitive abilities.

He characterized the timing of the debate as a strategic decision aimed at enhancing early voting turnout ahead of the 2024 Olympics. Reid also noted that Biden’s team anticipated inquiries about cognitive testing during preparation for an interview with George Stephanopoulos of ABC. Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s physician, reportedly dismissed the idea of such testing as “meaningless.”

A seasoned ally of Biden, Reid has a long history working closely with him, including roles as Chief of Staff during Biden’s vice presidency and key positions in his presidential campaigns. He also has experience writing speeches for various prominent politicians and was involved in policy-making during the Gore, Clinton, and Obama administrations.

Additionally, two other close aides to Biden, Stee Blichetti and Mike Donilon, provided testimony behind closed doors last week. While Richetti seemed to support Reid’s assertions, Donilon indicated uncertainty about the use of an autopen. Former chief of staff to Jill Biden, Anthony Bernal, along with presidential aide Annie Tomasini and Dr. O’Connor, have all invoked the Fifth Amendment in recent committee sessions, according to sources.