Context:

The book 'Original Sin' by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson highlights concerns about President Joe Biden's age and declining abilities, which his aides tried to suppress. It reveals that many Democrats, while privately worried about Biden's competence, were reluctant to openly discuss or challenge his re-election bid. The book, based heavily on anonymous sources, suggests that Biden's inner circle, referred to as the 'Politburo,' was more focused on protecting him than acknowledging his limitations. Despite Biden's gaffes and frailty, the book doesn't offer any groundbreaking revelations about his fitness for office, but rather a series of smaller incidents indicating his decline. Additionally, it notes the protectiveness of Jill Biden and the hesitance of Democratic leaders to hold a primary challenge against Biden, reflecting a broader reluctance to confront the issues publicly.

Dive Deeper:

• The book 'Original Sin' describes how Biden's aides suppressed discussions about his age and mental decline, creating a 'protective cocoon' around him. It portrays a Democratic Party afraid to publicly address these concerns, despite private acknowledgments of his limitations.

• Throughout his presidency, Biden frequently forgot names of long-time aides and allies, appearing frail in meetings and needing scripted cabinet sessions. The book suggests that these incidents were symptomatic of a wider decline, though Biden's team disputes these characterizations.

• Despite the book's reliance on anonymous sources, it underscores an enduring fear among Democrats to speak out against Biden's re-election, fearing backlash or scrutiny over their earlier support.

• A major theme is the reluctance of Democratic leaders to initiate a primary challenge against Biden, with some behind-the-scenes efforts by figures like Bill Daley failing to gain traction among potential contenders.

• The authors discuss how Biden's inner circle, dubbed the 'Politburo,' controlled information flow and decision-making, drawing parallels to Soviet-era governance. This group faced criticism for failing to address Biden's apparent decline and for potentially misjudging the political landscape.

• The book sheds light on the protectiveness of Jill Biden, who reportedly became more involved in decision-making as Biden aged. Her advisor, Anthony Bernal, is noted for shutting down discussions about Biden's age, reflecting a broader unwillingness to confront these issues.

• Outsiders who interacted with Biden were often surprised by his physical and cognitive state, with figures like George Clooney and Ari Emanuel expressing concerns about his capability to continue leading effectively.