Hunter Biden: Father’s “Disastrous” Debate Linked to Ambien Use
In a candid conversation with YouTube journalist Andrew Callaghan, Hunter Biden offered fresh insight into his father’s abrupt withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, pinning the blame on what he described as a troubling combination of exhaustion and sedatives.
Ambien in the Spotlight
Hunter Biden claimed that then‑81‑year‑old President Joe Biden had taken Ambien, a prescription sleep aid, to combat jet lag and fatigue just before the pivotal debate against Donald Trump last summer.
He flew around the world, he’s tired. They give him Ambien to be able to sleep. He gets up on stage and looks like he’s a deer in the headlights,” Hunter said, according to ABC News.
He clarified that he couldn’t be certain if his father took the medication immediately prior to the debate, but stressed that the combination of intense travel, age, and sedative use “fed into the story” of Biden’s faltering performance.
Fallout from the Debate
That broadcast quickly became infamous. Biden appeared disoriented and made several incoherent comments, including the now‑notorious “I finally beat Medicare.” The public reaction was swift: mounting pressure from Democratic leaders, including Nancy Pelosi, ultimately led Biden to leave the race on July 21, 2024—clearing the path for Kamala Harris to take the nomination.
Physician’s Records vs. Public Claims
Biden’s personal doctor, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, listed six medications in Biden’s February 2024 physical report, Ambien was not among them. Furthermore, the White House has not confirmed any Ambien prescription for Biden.
Broader Context
Hunter’s remarks come over a year after the debate’s fallout. He has also defended his father’s decision to drop out by saying it was a selfless move “to save the party”.
In the same interview, he singled out public figures, including actor George Clooney, for criticism, accusing them of undermining his father’s campaign.
What’s Next
The revelation about Ambien has reignited scrutiny of Biden’s health and mental acuity during the campaign. It arrives alongside ongoing political investigations into his fitness for office and post‑presidency scrutiny.
Summary:
Hunter Biden attributes his father’s debate-day collapse to a mix of exhaustion and Ambien use. While his remarks shed new light on Biden’s decision to exit the 2024 campaign, they also raise questions about disclosure, party unity, and presidential readiness.