As the 2024 presidential race begins to take shape, a new Washington Post-ABC News poll reveals growing concerns about President Joe Biden’s mental and physical fitness for office, while former President Donald Trump and potential Republican contender Florida Governor Ron DeSantis receive more favorable ratings.
The poll, conducted between April 28 and May 3, found that 56 percent of respondents disapproved of Biden’s performance in the White House, with 47 percent strongly disapproving. This marks the highest disapproval rating Biden has received since the poll’s inception in April 2021.
When it comes to mental sharpness, 63 percent of those surveyed believe Biden lacks what it takes to be president, with only 32 percent believing he possesses the necessary acuity. The results were similar for physical well-being, with 62 percent doubting Biden’s fitness and only 33 percent expressing confidence in his ability to lead.
Despite being just four years younger than Biden, former President Trump received much more favorable ratings in the poll. Sixty-four percent of respondents believe Trump has the physical fitness to lead the nation again, while 54 percent believe he has the mental acuity, compared to 43 percent who do not.
In a hypothetical 2024 matchup, Trump edges out Biden with 49 percent support to Biden’s 42 percent. Governor DeSantis, considered a likely contender for the Republican presidential nomination, also fares well against Biden, garnering 48 percent support to Biden’s 41 percent.
Biden, however, remains unfazed by concerns about his age, asserting in a recent interview that his experience and wisdom make him “more experienced than anybody that’s ever run for office.” He also emphasized his record of being “honorable” and “effective” in his political career.
As the 2024 race approaches, this poll highlights the challenges Biden faces in securing a second term. As conservatives rally around strong potential candidates, it remains to be seen how the president will address concerns about his fitness for office and regain the support of an increasingly skeptical electorate.
