As Vice President Kamala Harris released a summary of her health records, declaring herself “healthy” by her White House physician, the spotlight once again turns to presidential fitness and the health disclosures of potential leaders. This comes amidst ongoing discussions and, at times, criticisms regarding the health and fitness of presidential candidates, particularly as the 2024 election approaches.
Dr. Joshua Simmons, Harris’ physician, stated in his report on Saturday that the 59-year-old Vice President is in robust health, only noting a history of seasonal allergies and urticaria, both of which are being effectively managed. The report detailed that Harris uses over-the-counter medication for allergies and has been undergoing allergen immunotherapy for hives for the past three years, with no severe reactions ever experienced. Furthermore, Dr. Simmons highlighted Harris’ healthy lifestyle, including a nutritious diet and regular aerobic and strength training exercises. He affirmed her fitness for the demanding role of the presidency, encompassing duties as Chief Executive, Head of State, and Commander in Chief. Routine examinations and bloodwork in April were also reported as “unremarkable” and “normal,” with only minor sun damage observed on sun-exposed skin.
The release of Harris’s medical summary marks the first time her health records have been publicly disclosed, aligning with a common practice among presidential candidates to provide voters with insights into their physical condition. This transparency contrasts with the approach taken by former President Donald Trump. While Trump pledged to release his medical records as far back as August, a comprehensive report has yet to materialize.
In response to Harris’s health disclosure, a Trump campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, stated that Trump “has voluntarily released updates from his personal physician, as well as detailed reports from Dr. Ronny Jackson who treated him after the first assassination attempt. All have concluded he is in perfect and excellent health to be Commander in Chief.” However, the most recent publicly available information from a Trump physician is a brief, three-paragraph letter from Dr. Bruce Aronwold, released in November via Trump’s Truth Social account. This letter declared the then 78-year-old Trump to be in “excellent health” following a series of normal exams, but lacked specific details such as blood test results, blood pressure readings, weight, or any ongoing conditions or medications.
The differing levels of transparency in health disclosures become a point of political contention. While President Biden’s age and fitness have been frequently questioned, particularly by the Trump campaign, the Harris camp is now seemingly turning the focus onto Trump’s health. Harris recently launched an ad questioning Trump’s fitness for office, raising concerns about his age and suggesting potential incapacitation, especially in the context of his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, potentially assuming leadership. The ad includes footage appearing to show Trump slurring his speech, aiming to highlight perceived vulnerabilities related to his age and health.
As the campaign progresses, the issue of presidential health and fitness remains a pertinent topic. The release of summaries like Harris’s and the more general statements from Trump’s physicians contribute to the ongoing narrative surrounding the candidates’ capacity to serve in the highest office. Voters are left to consider the available information and assess for themselves the fitness of those seeking to lead the nation.
