The new book, ‘2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America,’ has provided an in-depth look at the growing political influence of First Lady Jill Biden and her advisor Anthony Bernal as President Joe Biden faced mounting scrutiny over his age and cognitive abilities. According to the book released by journalists Josh Dawsey, Tyler Pager, and Isaac Arnsdor, the first lady played a crucial role in managing the White House, especially as concerns about Biden’s mental state intensified. The book describes how, as Biden’s age became a focal point of public discussion and congressional investigations, Jill Biden’s influence within the administration expanded.
The book outlines how Jill Biden’s political rise coincided with her husband’s struggle to maintain his re-election campaign. One year after Biden’s controversial debate performance, his age became a central issue in political discourse, leading to investigations and media speculation about his cognitive health. The book also details the significant role of Anthony Bernal, the first lady’s chief of staff and senior advisor, who became a key figure in the administration. Bernal’s involvement grew as he was subpoenaed to testify in an investigation into alleged efforts to hide Biden’s mental decline.
According to the authors, Bernal quickly became close to Jill Biden and remained loyal to her, often blurring the lines between his own opinions and hers. He frequently answered questions for her in public settings, demonstrating his unwavering support for her. The book also highlights the internal tension within the Biden administration over Hunter Biden’s federal trial, which took place during the re-election campaign. The authors noted that there was a strict policy of not discussing Hunter Biden’s case, as it was seen as potentially damaging to Biden’s re-election bid. Despite this, Jill Biden attended the trial and made a significant effort to be present, showing her strong public support for her husband.
The book provides insights into the inner workings of the Biden campaign, including Jill Biden’s role in shielding her husband from criticism. The authors describe how she was the ‘protective spouse’ to President Biden, ensuring he adhered to a schedule, maintained a healthy diet, and questioned staff when she felt they made errors. In one instance, a Biden aide apologized to the first lady when she questioned why the press conference had gone on too long. The book also details how Jill Biden, along with her inner circle, convinced President Biden to remain in the race after his disastrous debate performance, despite growing pressure to step down.
As Biden struggled to recover from his debate performance, he and Jill Biden took a planned family trip to Camp David. The authors state that the president was not seriously considering dropping out of the race and was instead assessing how much damage had been done. The first lady was part of the inner circle that encouraged Biden to stay in the race, even as party leaders and donors called for his resignation. After the debate, Biden began to downplay the performance, blaming a cold for his off-night, while emphasizing the need for more sleep and avoiding late-night events.
Less than a month after the debate, Biden suspended his re-election campaign and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. The book also reflects on earlier Fox News reports about Biden’s cognitive decline and the alleged efforts within his inner circle to cover it up. A Biden spokesperson has not yet responded to Fox News Digital’s request for comment on the book’s allegations. This book adds to the ongoing narrative of the political dynamics within the Biden administration and the increasing role of Jill Biden and her advisors in shaping the campaign strategy.