US President Joe Biden pulls out of speech after Covid test as public tell him to 'go'

US President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid and pulled out of a campaign speech in Las Vegas

US President Joe Biden coughs

US President Joe Biden has pulled out of a campaign rally after testing positive for Covid (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

US President Joe Biden has abruptly cancelled a campaign speech at the last minute, after revealing that he had tested positive for Covid. An organiser broke the news to the expectant crowd in Las Vegas, reportedly explaining that the President would not be appearing because "he doesn't want to get anyone sick."

The revelation came last night (Weds) that President Biden contracted Covid, prompting him to withdraw from a key event aimed at rallying Hispanic voters in Las Vegas. Earlier, Biden had visited a Mexican restaurant in the city, engaging with patrons before learning of his diagnosis..

Amidst a flurry of concerns about his leadership capabilities, calls have intensified for President Biden to relinquish his role as the Democratic nominee. This follows a series of troubling public appearances, including a debate performance and TV interviews that have cast doubts over his capacity to govern for another term.

On Wednesday, the 81-year-old leader hinted at stepping down should he face 'some medical condition', reports the Mirror.

Polls are currently indicating a strong lead for the Republican contender, ex-President Trump, after the recent assassination attempt during a campaign rally. Furthermore, a staggering two-thirds of voters now question Biden's suitability for re-election, citing age-related concerns exacerbated by his incoherent showing in the initial debate.

This marks the third instance of President Biden contracting Covid. The White House, through Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, has confirmed that he is both vaccinated and boosted.

President Biden was spotted earlier mingling with supporters and delivering a rousing speech. But trouble brewed at the Las Vegas rally, where one attendee revealed: "President Biden has tested positive for COVID."

The voice from the crowd continued, "He was supposed to speak here in Vegas, but an organizer just told the crowd he's not coming because he doesn't want to get anyone sick."

Adding to a day of drama, ahead of his positive Covid test, influential Democrat congressman Adam Schiff joined calls pressuring Biden to bow out, urging the nominee to "pass the torch". The President stated earlier this month that he would only step down "if the Lord Almighty" called upon him, adding, "But the Lord Almighty's not coming down."

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