A Look into the Vice President’s Medical Fitness

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Vice President Kamala Harris released a summary of her medical records from her White House physician, Dr. Joshua Simmons, who described her as a “healthy 59-year-old female” with a medical history that includes seasonal allergies and urticaria, which are commonly known as hives. Simmons noted that Harris has been treating her seasonal allergies with over-the-counter medications and managing her hives with allergen immunotherapy (AIT) over the past three years. He emphasized that Harris has never experienced any severe symptoms related to these conditions, such as angioedema (swelling) or anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction).

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In addition to her medical history, Dr. Simmons highlighted Harris’ overall healthy lifestyle. According to the report, she maintains a balanced diet, engages in daily aerobic exercise and core strength training, and occasionally drinks alcohol in moderation. The physician also stated that Harris does not use tobacco products. Based on her medical and lifestyle habits, Simmons concluded that Harris has both the physical and mental fitness necessary to carry out the duties of the presidency, including responsibilities as Chief Executive, Head of State, and Commander in Chief.

Harris underwent her last medical exam in April, which Simmons described as “unremarkable.” The report also noted that all of Harris’ routine exams and blood tests came back normal. While Harris has some mild sun damage on areas of her skin that have been exposed to the sun, there were no other significant findings in her examination. This release marks the first time that Harris’ medical records have been made public, following the tradition of presidential and vice-presidential candidates making their health information available to the public.

This release comes as health has become a central issue in political discourse, particularly regarding age and fitness for office. For example, former President Donald Trump, currently 78 years old, has been the subject of scrutiny over his health, especially since his last medical report, posted on his Truth Social account in November 2023, was a brief, three-paragraph letter from his doctor, Dr. Bruce Aronwold. That letter declared Trump to be in “excellent health,” but it lacked details that are typically included in medical disclosures, such as blood test results, blood pressure, weight, and any existing conditions or medications.

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In contrast, President Joe Biden, at 81 years old, has faced ongoing questions about his age and physical fitness, particularly during his bid for re-election. Polls indicate that voters have expressed concern about Biden’s advanced age, making it a central issue in his campaign. Republicans, including Trump, have often used Biden’s age as a point of criticism, with Trump frequently referring to him as “Sleepy Joe” to suggest that Biden is no longer fit to serve.

However, Harris and her campaign have shifted the focus back onto Trump and his age in recent weeks, capitalizing on the fact that both Biden and Trump are in their late 70s and early 80s. A senior aide from Harris’ campaign mentioned that they are attempting to raise awareness of Trump’s age and physical fitness, noting that concerns about his health should also be considered. The Harris campaign recently launched an ad targeting Trump’s age, questioning what might happen if he were to become incapacitated while serving as president. The ad specifically highlighted Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance, suggesting that if Trump were unable to serve, Vance would take over, a scenario the Harris campaign seems eager to put into the spotlight.

The advertisement includes a clip of Trump at a public event where he appeared to slur his words, as well as footage from a Fox News host saying that Trump had been “off his game” lately. The ad was designed to mirror the criticisms that Trump has often leveled at Biden, but instead, it turns the conversation back on Trump, suggesting that his age and health are equally relevant for voters to consider.

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Harris’ decision to release her medical records now underscores her campaign’s desire to present her as fit and capable, particularly in comparison to both Biden and Trump, who have both faced questions about their age and overall health. While Biden has continued to face public concern about his ability to serve another term, Harris’ focus on Trump’s age and fitness could shift the narrative, making the health and fitness of both major presidential candidates a focal point of the election.

The release of medical records by candidates has become an expected part of the election cycle, particularly for those running for the highest offices in the country. This practice aims to reassure the public that the candidates are physically and mentally capable of fulfilling the demanding role of president. Both Harris and Biden have made their health information available, though questions about their fitness remain prominent issues in the political landscape, particularly as they relate to voter concerns.

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Trump’s reluctance to release more comprehensive health information has been a notable contrast to his opponents. Although he has promised to make his records public, his most recent disclosure, the three-paragraph letter from 2023, left out many important details that voters and analysts might expect to see. As both Trump and Biden continue to face questions about their age and health, Harris’ medical report provides a detailed and transparent account of her fitness for office.

Harris’ release of her medical records highlights her health and ability to take on the responsibilities of the presidency. In contrast, Trump has yet to release a full medical report, although he has promised to do so. The Harris campaign is now using Trump’s age and health as a counter-narrative to the Republican attacks on Biden’s fitness, hoping to sway voters by raising concerns about Trump’s ability to serve another term. As the election approaches, health and fitness will likely remain central topics for both parties, as voters consider the capabilities of the candidates running for the country’s highest office.

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