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Is Joe Biden actually dead? It is time to separate fact from fiction
The rapid digital revolution happening globally has also triggered a raging danger of misinformation. In a recent development, false social media claims sparked deepening concern about the health of incumbent US President Joe Biden.
Let’s set the record straight for once and for all. Biden is not dead. He is alive and recovering from COVID-19. He tested positive for the virus on July 17. His office publicly disclosed this information and there is no credible evidence to suggest anything different.
False posts fueling rumours about Biden’s health
The period of rumours started on July 23 as Ryan Garcia, a professional boxer, posted a misleading claim on X: “And just like that Joe Biden is dead. All the sh*t you do without true repentance. We have you surely dead. I can’t even say RIP. I’m celebrating.”
Scores of netizens shared the post, adding fuel to the fire of speculation and misinformation. By the morning of July 25, the post had already garnered at least 3.8 K likes, 440 comments, 259 reposts and 477,000 views, highlighting the true scale of the problem.
A video controversy came earlier. A clip circulating on social media represents President Biden seemingly scratching his back, leading some to speculate that it could be a body double or fake. Someone even commented that Biden’s eyes changed colours.
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Three more incidents adding fuel to the fire
Further fueling the fire of speculation, a press conference held by Democrats featuring Joe Biden’s voice only and not his visual appearance led to rumours about his health. But this can be attributed to technical problems and is not indicative of any health condition.
Global Press made a shocking statement on X on July 23, claiming: “A verified source has informed the Global Press team that Joe Biden is currently in hospice care and is unlikely to survive the night.” The account does not exist anymore.
The White House clearing all of Biden’s Monday meetings and tentatively removing all meetings from July 23 to 28 also helped the series of rumours to get stronger. But it should be noted that there is no truth to the rumours about the US President’s death.
Biden seen in public again. Delivers speech from Oval Office
There are videos online that represent Joe Biden being seen in public for the first time in several days, putting an end to the series of conspiracy theories. Even Dr Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s physician, confirmed that the president’s COVID symptoms have resolved.
Biden addressed the nation on July 24 to explain his historic decision to drop out of the presidential election race, delivering a reflective and hopeful message from the Oval Office about the need to begin a fresh chapter in the US’s story.
In a post on July 21, Biden shared his interest in offering his full support and endorsement for Vice President Kamala Harris to be the nominee of the Democratic Party this year. “Democrats – it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this,” he added.
