I remember exactly where I was when President Biden announced he would not run for re-election. Ironically, I was about an hour north of the White House, celebrating my sister’s 50th birthday.
We were speechless but far from surprised. We had so many questions. What took him so long to make this decision? Why hadn’t he done it sooner? Like right after that disastrous debate. How nice it would have been to have the opportunity for a presidential primary and select a candidate with enough time to share their vision for our country’s future.
Alas, that did not happen, and we are where we are politically today for reasons that are only coming to light months later.
Regardless, “Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again” is a comprehensive retelling of the decisions made to conceal the truth from the American public. Some of the book’s biggest bombshells included a behind-the-scenes look into his declining health, his refusal to listen to party leadership and inability recognize longtime friends and supporters (like George Clooney), and the inner workings of the White House staff who tried to present and maintain a “nothing to see here” facade.
The cover photo says it all. President Biden and his inner circle closed their eyes to the polls. They covered their ears about health concerns, and prioritized pride over the potential (and very real) damage to the Democratic party and the country if he campaigned and lost.
Nearly everyone who spoke to the authors did so anonymously, fearing retaliation. This general theme has carried over to the current administration, where everyone appears to be afraid to talk freely.
I also feel a great deal of empathy for Biden, a political legend who did so much good during his tenure, dealt with personal tragedies, and yet couldn’t overcome his own stubbornness to pass the torch to the next generation. A decision that will likely be his legacy.
I’ve heard numerous reasons why people didn’t want to read this book. Many are angry with the authors, particularly Jake Tapper, who previously defended President Biden and has been accused of profiting from a story he may have downplayed in his reporting.
(Full disclosure: I believe Jake Tapper to be a responsible and ethical journalist. His coverage during the presidential campaign was a result of what the administration fed him and the rest of the media, which turned out to be lies.)
This book is also a challenging read for anyone who loves someone who can’t comprehend or face their limitations as they age. It’s also difficult for those of us who want to put party leaders on a pedestal and then realize they are only human and have made a lot of mistakes.
But it is an important read.
I gave this book a 5-star review because it was exceptionally well-written and thoroughly investigated. I trust the authors and their reporting of this period in our living history. I highly recommend books and articles that reveal the uncomfortable truths about both sides of the aisle.
Did anyone else read this book? What did you think? Thoughtful comments are welcome.
Elisa
Before leaving for my vacation in Italy last month, I called my best friends, Craig and Pam, and asked them a question I usually don’t have to ask anyone.