Washington, D.C., May 17, 2025 — Newly released audio obtained by Axios has reignited controversy over President Joe Biden’s mental acuity, revealing moments of confusion during a 2023 interview with a Justice Department special counsel investigating his handling of classified documents.
The leaked recording features Biden struggling to recall critical personal and political milestones, including the year he ended his term as vice president and the date of his son Beau Biden’s death.
While the Biden administration previously released interview transcripts, it refused to share the audio, labeling it as “constitutionally-protected law enforcement materials.” The White House accused Republican critics of trying to use the recordings for “political gain.”
“Well-Meaning, Elderly Man With Poor Memory”
Special Counsel Robert Hur released a damning report in February 2024 that described Biden as a “well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory”, ultimately deciding not to press charges for the mishandling of classified documents.
At the time, Biden fired back at the portrayal, saying: “My memory is fine.” White House aides also pushed back against claims of cognitive decline.
However, the newly surfaced audio offers the public its first chance to hear the president’s demeanor during the interviews conducted in October 2023. Observers have described the tone of Biden’s responses as hesitant and uncertain in key moments.
Book Alleges Cognitive Cover-Up
The audio release coincides with revelations from a controversial new book, Original Sin by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson. The book alleges the White House may have concealed the true extent of Biden’s cognitive issues in 2024, with claims that aides even discussed the possibility of placing him in a wheelchair.
It also alleges Biden failed to recognize major public figures like George Clooney and forgot the names of senior staff.
Political Fallout Ahead of 2025 Election
The audio leak comes at a delicate time for the former president’s political future. Biden’s campaign for a second term, already strained by voter concerns about age and lucidity, is expected to face renewed scrutiny.
“This leak raises serious questions about transparency and fitness for office,” said a Republican campaign spokesperson.
Polls have consistently shown a significant portion of the electorate concerned about Biden’s age and cognitive health, despite no formal medical disqualification.
Whether this leak was politically motivated or not, its timing—months before the general election—could prove critical. Democrats, meanwhile, continue to accuse their opponents of exploiting private legal material to undermine public confidence.
Where the Investigation Stands
The Robert Hur investigation concluded without charges, despite confirming that Biden had retained classified documents at both his Delaware home and former office. Biden cooperated fully with investigators, according to DOJ reports.
Axios has not disclosed how it obtained the leaked audio. The Trump campaign has hinted that it may seek to publicly release the full interview in the coming weeks.
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