Next Up with Mark Halperin Biden's Cognitive Decline Cover-Up "Original Sin" Involves the Author, and Trump's Unusual China Strategy
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May 13, 2025 
Rich Lowry, the Editor of National Review, weighs in on the media's role in covering Joe Biden's cognitive decline and critiques Donald Trump's unconventional strategy towards China. Senator Michael Bennet discusses the Democratic Party's failures and the urgent need for revitalization as he shares insights from his own political journey. The conversation reveals concerns about media accountability and the importance of honest dialogue in politics, as well as the impact of economic challenges on the electorate.
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Biden's Cognitive Decline Was Evident
- Joe Biden's cognitive decline was evident as early as 2017, observable in public events long before the 2024 campaign.
- The media and Biden's team covered it up, undermining trust and accountability in political reporting.
Media Accepted White House Spin
- The White House spun narratives denying Biden's decline, while the press often accepted these explanations without aggressive scrutiny.
- Media coverage was compromised by spin, light questioning, and avoidance of tough follow-up.
Tapper's Indignant Interview Cutoff
- Jake Tapper indignantly cut off an interview suggesting Biden had cognitive decline, accusing opponents of mocking a stutter.
- This contrasts with Tapper's later book admitting a cover-up and decline, showing inconsistency.