Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York.
President Joseph R. Biden Jr. stumbled and fell onstage on Thursday, June 1, 2023, after delivering a commencement address at the United States Air Force Academy in El Paso County, Colorado. The incident occurred after Biden congratulated the final Air Force graduate at the ceremony.
The United States Air Force Academy is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Also known as the Air Force Academy or USAFA, it is a military academy where students receive education and training in the United States Officers Force. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs, athletic accomplishments, and commitment to cultivating Air Force leaders, the Air Force Academy holds a prominent position within the military education landscape.
Following the interaction with over 900 graduates, Biden appeared to trip and fall while returning to his seat on the stage. Secret Service agents and an Air Force official promptly assisted him back up, and Biden pointed to the elevated wooded staircase on the scene, suggesting it may have caused his fall.
Despite the fall, Biden showed resilience and continued to engage with the graduates, even taking photos and selfies with them. Upon his return to the White House, when reporters questioned him about the incident, Biden humorously remarked, “I got sandbagged.”
This incident has sparked discussions regarding Biden’s physical fitness, particularly in the context of his potential re-election bid.
However, a memo from February issued by Biden’s physician reaffirmed that he remains healthy and capable of fulfilling his presidential duties. The message cited a comprehensive medical examination and history as the basis for this evaluation.