During a summit with African leaders in Lobito, Angola, on December 4, 2024, President Joe Biden was seen briefly resting his eyes, which caught the attention of the public. Seated at a table with various officials from African nations, Biden closed his eyes and rested his head while Tanzania’s Vice President, Philip Mpango, was speaking.
The moment lasted for more than a minute but was followed by Biden resuming his alertness as he delivered remarks both before and after. This brief interlude sparked curiosity about the 82-year-old president’s energy levels during the high-profile summit.
The incident quickly spread on social media, where several observers, including Outkick founder Clay Travis, speculated that Biden might have fallen asleep. Some criticized the decision to send an elderly president on a three-day trip to Africa, questioning the wisdom behind such a strenuous schedule for someone of his age.
Jake Schneider, former rapid response director for President-elect Trump’s campaign, also remarked on Biden’s apparent drowsiness, humorously questioning who was “running the country.” The brief lapse in attention fueled concerns about Biden’s ability to handle the pressures of global leadership.
Joe Biden
Despite the video going viral, the White House did not provide an immediate response to the incident. However, Biden’s visit was not without significance. Earlier in the day, he announced a $1 billion humanitarian aid package to support Africans displaced by devastating droughts and food insecurity.
The announcement reinforced the U.S.’s long-standing role as the world’s largest provider of humanitarian aid and emphasized Biden’s commitment to helping African nations. Biden also noted that African leaders sought more than just aid, urging for increased investment in the region’s development.
This trip marked Biden’s first visit to Africa as president, underscoring the importance of strengthening U.S.-Africa relations amidst the growing influence of China on the continent. The timing of the trip was particularly significant, coming on the heels of challenges faced by North Carolina residents after Hurricane Helene, and the ongoing recovery efforts in the United States. Biden’s focus on Africa was framed as part of a broader strategy to address global crises, including climate change, security, and economic development.
While Biden’s diplomatic mission to Angola was focused on positive initiatives, the viral moment of him resting his eyes quickly became a distraction. Critics seized upon it as a symbol of the concerns surrounding his age and stamina. As the president continues his international efforts, this incident has sparked a wider conversation about his ability to maintain focus and energy in such demanding roles, especially with the scrutiny that comes with being an older leader on the world stage.
