Biden advisers who spoke with Axios on the condition of anonymity say they are concerned that videos of Biden walking and shuffling alone, particularly when walking across the grass to presidential helicopter Marine One, are highlighting his age. The new protocols of using staffers to flank Biden are an extension of the White House’s “bubble wrap” strategy, launched last fall, which sought to cordon the president until November 2024 to make sure he doesn’t trip or fall in public again. Biden’s walking routine changed around mid-April, following three years where he walked alone. Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates jokingly downplayed the new routine, telling Axios, “He's fully visible except for a few seconds. Impeach.” Biden’s numerous falls and stiff gait have led to speculation about the state of his age and health. “Sometimes, an injury or underlying medical condition can cause an abnormal gait,” according to the Cleveland Clinic. “Certain gait abnormalities are temporary and others require lifelong management.” Biden’s age has been a central concern for voters, and new survey data shows it remains so as the 2024 presidential campaign goes into full swing. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll found that 61 percent of voters say Biden is too old to lead the country effectively. A separate NBC News poll of 1,000 registered voters found that 76 percent have either major or moderate concerns that Biden does not have “the necessary mental and physical health to be president for a second term.” Staffers now walking with Biden to obscure his legs include deputy chiefs of staff Bruce Reed and Annie Tomasini, and close adviser Mike Donilon, Axios reported. Some advisors told the news outlet they believe video footage of Biden’s walks to and from Marine One is now better, and that they expect the new protocol to remain in place.The White House has implemented a new strategy to draw attention away from President Joe Biden’s stumbling and shuffling when he walks — surround him with aides to block him from media cameras.
