Former President Joe Biden made headlines during a speech at the National Bar Association’s 100th annual gala in Chicago, where he celebrated the appointment of Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first Black woman on the Supreme Court. Biden’s remarks came amidst ongoing scrutiny about his mental fitness, particularly in light of a recent testimony from a top aide before the House Oversight Committee. Throughout the event, Biden appeared to struggle with his speech, particularly when referencing significant moments during his vice presidency under Barack Obama and his own selection of Kamala Harris as the first woman of Black and South Asian heritage to the vice presidency. This slurring during speeches has raised concerns about Biden’s cognitive abilities, a topic that has been further complicated by allegations regarding a lack of transparency about his mental condition.
In his address, Biden highlighted his commitment to diversity within his administration, stating that he aimed to appoint judges who reflected America’s demographic makeup. He proudly mentioned that he appointed what he called “the most demographically diverse slate of judges in history,” specifically naming Justice Jackson as a standout figure among these appointments. He emphasized his achievement in appointing a historic number of Black women to the federal appellate courts, asserting that his appointments surpassed those of prior presidents combined. Additionally, Biden reiterated that his selections were not limited to Ivy League graduates, showcasing a broader commitment to diversity.
The National Bar Association, where Biden spoke, has a rich history, having been founded in Iowa before Black attorneys could join the American Bar Association. Comprising 66,000 members, it advocates for civil rights and diversity within the legal profession. The gala was attended by notable figures, including Justice Jackson herself, along with various state attorneys general and media personalities who echoed Biden’s call for increased representation in the judiciary. The presence of such a diverse group underscored the event’s focus on civil rights and legal equity.
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, Biden’s mental acuity has been under intense scrutiny, especially following his performance in a debate against Donald Trump in June 2024, where he struggled to articulate his responses. Books published in 2025 have captured a narrative of Biden’s declining mental state and the challenges this posed to the Democratic Party after his decision to withdraw from the election. These revelations have led to ongoing investigations in Congress focused on the perceived cover-up of Biden’s cognitive decline, drawing attention to the implications for governance and leadership.
Adding to the controversy, Michael Donilon, a longtime aide to Biden, recently testified before the House Oversight Committee, revealing that he had a potential financial interest tied to Biden’s re-election efforts. Donilon claimed that he could have earned up to $8 million had Biden won a second term. This testimony has fueled questions about the motivations of those around Biden and the broader implications of political finances on trust in leadership. The ongoing investigations and testimonies raise crucial concerns about transparency and the nature of political support.
As Biden continues to navigate these complex dynamics, the interplay between his announced achievements and the undercurrents of concern regarding his fitness for office remains a focal point in the political landscape. The emphasis on diversity and representation, while commendable, contrasts sharply with the serious questions about his abilities and the overarching need for accountability in leadership roles. The situation highlights the delicate balance leaders must maintain between promoting their accomplishments and addressing the potential vulnerabilities that may undermine their credibility.
