Hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman has publicly criticized first lady Jill Biden for pushing President Joe Biden to remain in the 2024 race despite a rising tide of opposition. In a lengthy post on X, Ackman expressed concerns that Jill Biden may be more interested in maintaining her status and perks as first lady than considering her husband’s needs or the welfare of the country. He noted that once Joe Biden leaves office, Jill will lose access to Air Force One, glamorous events, and the adulation she receives while traveling abroad.
Ackman acknowledged that his assessment might be considered harsh but emphasized that Jill Biden may be putting her desires over her husband’s needs. He suggested that the stress of continuing in office could contribute to neurological deterioration, which would put Joe Biden at risk. Ackman also pointed out that Jill Biden’s behavior during public appearances seemed to treat her husband like an infant or an old man and that she appeared to relish the adulation from the crowd.
This comes amidst reports that first lady Jill Biden praised her husband’s performance during a debate, despite nearly every political commentator saying he not only did poorly but should be replaced. Ackman raised questions about who is actually running the country, suggesting that Jill Biden may be exercising more control over decisions made by the president and his staff.
The Biden campaign has been attempting to downplay concerns about Joe Biden’s mental acuity and his ability to serve a second term as president. The family insists that he should stay in the race and continue fighting, with sources close to the situation claiming that Hunter Biden has been one of the strongest voices encouraging the president not to drop out of the presidential race.