President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently experiencing mild symptoms, according to the White House.
Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House Press Secretary, confirmed that President Biden, who is vaccinated and has received booster shots, tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday.
The 81-year-old President was active earlier in the day, visiting supporters in Las Vegas and speaking at an event.
However, a scheduled campaign speech later in the night was cancelled following the positive test result.
Jean-Pierre stated that President Biden plans to isolate at his home in Delaware while continuing to perform “all of his duties fully.”
Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the President’s doctor, reported that Biden has presented with upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and a cough.
The President has started a course of Paxlovid, an antiviral medication used to treat Covid-19.
In a tweet, President Biden expressed gratitude for the well wishes and assured the public of his commitment to continue working during his recovery.
The President’s positive test comes amid increasing pressure from within his party regarding concerns about his age and its potential impact on his candidacy for re-election.
According to US media, Senate Majority Leader, Chuck Schumer and House Majority Leader, Hakeem Jefferies have privately met with President Biden to express their concerns that his candidacy could adversely affect other House and Senate races.
President Biden took to Twitter to address the situation.
In one tweet, he thanked everyone for their well wishes and reassured the public that he would continue to work during his recovery.
In another tweet, he humorously remarked, “I’m sick… of Elon Musk and his rich buddies trying to buy this election. And if you agree, pitch in here.”