Trump makes fun of Biden for debate skills, says age not the issue

Former President Donald Trump was in high spirits on Friday, basking in the glory of his performance in the presidential debate the night before against President Biden. Addressing a crowd of thousands in Chesapeake, Virginia, he questioned if anyone had actually witnessed what he called a “debate.” Trump went on to declare his triumph over a man he described as “corrupt” and “incompetent,” asserting that Mr. Biden is seeking to dismantle the country.

The president’s debating skills in the face-off raised concerns among many Democrats. Speaking in a hoarse voice, he struggled to counter Trump’s falsehoods while appearing before a national audience during prime time. The split-screen presentation captured Mr. Biden on several occasions with his mouth agape, delivering jumbled responses to various inquiries. The timing of the debate coincided with a growing sentiment among Americans that Mr. Biden, now 81, might be too advanced in age for the presidency and potentially unable to connect with the populace.

In a taunting manner, Trump ridiculed the president, highlighting how Mr. Biden had spent the week at Camp David “resting, working, and studying.” Trump emphasized that although Mr. Biden had secured the debate regulations, date, and network of his choice, these advantages were futile in shielding his deplorable track record. “Joe Biden’s age is not the issue,” Trump asserted, “it’s his competency.”

On the same day, President Biden addressed his lackluster debate performance at a campaign rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, exuding noticeably more vitality and dynamism than the prior night. Admitting his declining eloquence and debating prowess, he reassured the supportive audience of his unwavering commitment to truth, morality, and effectiveness in the role of president. Demonstrating resilience, he emphasized the importance of resilience in the face of setbacks.

Dismissing speculations that Democrats might contemplate substituting Mr. Biden on the Democratic ticket following his subpar showing, Trump contended that his internal campaign polling indicated Mr. Biden surpasses other potential Democratic contenders. Trump then directed his criticism towards Vice President Kamala Harris, insinuating that her selection was perhaps Mr. Biden’s most judicious decision, albeit one unwanted by many. Trump humorously admitted his own eagerness for such a scenario.