In his first public interview since the 2024 U.S. election, Hunter Biden opened up about what he believes led to his father Joe Biden’s underwhelming performance during the presidential debate against Donald Trump. Speaking with journalist Andrew Callaghan, Hunter offered new insight into the circumstances surrounding the debate.
Hunter claimed that fatigue from extensive travel and the use of a sleep aid significantly affected the former president’s presence on stage. “He flew so much he could’ve circled the globe three times. He’s 81. He was absolutely exhausted,” Hunter said. He further explained, “They gave him Ambien so he could rest, and when he stepped onto the debate stage, he looked completely dazed—like a deer caught in headlights.”
Ambien is a prescription drug commonly used to treat short-term insomnia.
Joe Biden, who had been preparing for the debate at Camp David and had recently returned from fundraising events on the U.S. West Coast and diplomatic trips to Europe, faced widespread criticism for his performance. Less than a month later, he exited the presidential race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.
Biden attributed his lackluster performance to jet lag and later addressed concerns over his age in a campaign ad, stating, “I may not be a young man, but I know the difference between right and wrong. And I know how to stand back up after being knocked down.”
Hunter Biden also took the opportunity to defend his father’s mental clarity, pushing back against narratives about decline. “We literally watched him go from 80 to 81 to 82,” he said. “Just because someone ages doesn’t mean they’re incapable.”
He also criticized the Democratic Party’s response, suggesting his father was unfairly treated despite his long-standing service. According to The New York Times, Hunter had been one of the loudest voices urging Joe Biden not to withdraw from the race immediately after the debate.
