Media Ignored Biden’s Cognitive Issues Until Debate Fallout, Experts Say

Media Silence on Biden’s Condition Under Scrutiny

In a revealing discussion on The Megyn Kelly Show, host Megyn Kelly and Steve Krakauer, executive producer of the show, tackled the media's reluctance to address former President Joe Biden's cognitive decline prior to a pivotal debate that marked the end of his campaign. Posted on July 5, 2024, this episode delves into how major news outlets seemingly avoided candid reporting on Biden’s physical and mental state until they could no longer ignore the obvious.

Kelly opened the conversation by highlighting the stark contrast between the media’s earlier coverage and the undeniable reality that emerged during the debate. She pointed out that many journalists and outlets had downplayed or outright dismissed concerns about Biden’s health, framing them as partisan attacks rather than legitimate issues. This narrative, according to Kelly, persisted until the debate performance made it impossible to maintain.

Language and Framing by Media Outlets

At around the 5:30 mark of the video, Steve Krakauer discussed the specific language used by media to sidestep the truth about Biden’s condition. He noted that terms like 'age-related challenges' or 'occasional gaffes' were often employed to soften the perception of deeper issues. Krakauer argued that this deliberate choice of phrasing reflected a broader unwillingness to confront the reality of Biden’s fitness for office, prioritizing narrative over factual reporting.

Krakauer further emphasized that this wasn’t just a matter of oversight but a systemic issue within certain media circles. He suggested that protecting political figures from scrutiny, especially on sensitive topics like health, has become a troubling trend, undermining public trust in journalism. This perspective resonated with Kelly, who added that such practices erode the media’s role as a watchdog for the American people.

Close Ties Between Media and Political Figures

Shifting focus around the 12:15 point, the discussion turned to the relationship between specific media programs and Biden’s administration. Krakauer singled out 'Morning Joe' on MSNBC as an example of a show with notably close ties to Biden and his team. He described how the program often served as a platform for favorable coverage, rarely questioning or critically examining the former president’s capabilities or decisions.

This coziness, Krakauer argued, contributed to a lack of accountability. Kelly agreed, noting that when media outlets act more as allies than independent observers, the public loses access to unfiltered information. This segment of the conversation underscored a critical concern: the blurring line between journalism and advocacy in political reporting.

Impact of the Debate and Media’s Late Awakening

Towards the 18:40 mark, Kelly and Krakauer reflected on the debate itself as a turning point. The event laid bare issues that had been whispered about for months, forcing even the most reluctant outlets to acknowledge Biden’s struggles. Krakauer pointed out that post-debate coverage saw a sudden shift, with previously dismissive commentators now openly discussing cognitive decline—a term they had avoided for so long.

Kelly expressed frustration over this delayed honesty, questioning why it took a public spectacle for the media to report what many had observed privately. She stressed that timely and transparent reporting could have better informed the public, potentially altering the political landscape much earlier. This failure, she argued, represents a disservice to Americans who rely on the press for clarity and truth.

Broader Implications for Journalism

Wrapping up the discussion near the 25:00 mark, both Kelly and Krakauer explored the long-term consequences of the media’s handling of Biden’s situation. Krakauer, who authored the book 'Uncovered,' emphasized the need for journalism to return to its roots of fearless inquiry, regardless of political affiliation or personal bias. He urged reporters to prioritize facts over narratives, a sentiment Kelly echoed as vital for rebuilding trust.

This episode of The Megyn Kelly Show serves as a pointed critique of media practices during Biden’s tenure, raising important questions about accountability and transparency. As Americans continue to seek reliable information, discussions like these highlight the importance of a press that serves the public interest above all else. The insights shared by Kelly and Krakauer remind us that vigilance and honesty in reporting are non-negotiable pillars of a free society.