Episode Summary: Normally Podcast: Wait?! Joe Biden WAS NOT Sharp As a Tack?!

Release Date: May 15, 2025
Hosted by: Mary Katherine Hand and Carol Markowitz
Podcast: The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show | Normally Segment

Introduction

In this compelling episode of the "Normally" segment from The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show, hosts Mary Katherine Hand and Carol Markowitz delve into explosive allegations questioning President Joe Biden's mental acuity. Drawing from a recent NBC Nightly News report, the discussion centers around revelations from the new book Original Sin by journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson.

Breaking News: Allegations from Original Sin

Mary Katherine Hand introduces the primary topic by referencing a segment from NBC Nightly News (05:01), where Original Sin is highlighted as a source of concerning claims about President Biden's cognitive health.

• Quote (05:11) – Gabe Gutierrez:
  “According to an excerpt from the new book obtained by NBC News, it was, quote, obvious to many at a fundraiser that then President Biden did not know who George Clooney was, even though they were longtime acquaintances and Clooney is one of the most famous men in the world.”

The book further alleges that former President Obama had to assist Biden during photo ops, indicating potential memory lapses and diminished public performance.

Biden Team's Response

The Biden administration swiftly responds to these allegations, challenging the credibility of the claims.

• Quote (05:15) – Gabe Gutierrez:
  “A Biden spokesperson now says the authors did not fact check the book with them adding, we continue to await anything that shows where Joe Biden had to make a presidential decision or where national security was threatened or where he was unable to do his job. He was a very effective president.”

Analysis of Media Credibility and Bias

Mary Katherine and Carol scrutinize the media's role in perpetuating these claims, expressing skepticism about the motivations behind the reporting.

• Quote (06:15) – Carol Markowitz:
  “I do see the lying face on them. I do see it in other people, however.”

• Quote (07:21) – Carol Markowitz:
  “Nobody told them. The people, you know in the White House didn't tell them.”

The hosts argue that ideological biases may have influenced the media's portrayal of Biden, suggesting a deeper partisan agenda.

Historical Context: Past Indicators of Cognitive Decline

The discussion shifts to historical instances that may support the current allegations, citing Biden's past struggles with public speaking and memory.

• Quote (09:25) – Mary Katherine Hand:
  “You could see him get off Marine One and not know how to walk into his own house. Like that is a problem.”

They highlight previous moments where Biden appeared disoriented or unable to engage effectively in high-pressure situations.

Political Implications and Future Revelations

Carol and Mary speculate on forthcoming revelations that might emerge from insider accounts, such as staffer testimonies or further publications.

• Quote (19:50) – Carol Markowitz:
  “I think I'm waiting for a staffer book. The first staffer book is going to be, I think, a big one. Just because somebody's willing to give us a banger.”

They emphasize the importance of uncovering who was truly exerting influence behind the scenes during Biden's presidency.

Comparisons with Former President Donald Trump

The hosts draw contrasts between Biden and Donald Trump, particularly focusing on Trump's unorthodox communication style and its impact on media interpretation.

• Quote (28:40) – Carol Markowitz:
  “Who else does that? Who else does that?”

They discuss how Trump's unpredictable statements create confusion and complicate media narratives, possibly affecting public perception differently than Biden's alleged cognitive issues.

Concluding Thoughts: The Need for Transparency

Mary Katherine underscores the necessity for accurate historical records and transparency regarding the true dynamics within the Biden administration.

• Quote (19:50) – Mary Katherine Hand:
  “We do need to know for history what was happening there.”

The episode concludes with a call for accountability and honest reporting to ensure the American public remains well-informed about their leadership.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [05:11] Gabe Gutierrez:
  “Former President Obama... had to hop in and finish sentences for Biden during photo ops.”

• [07:21] Carol Markowitz:
  “Nobody told them. The people, you know in the White House didn't tell them.”

• [09:25] Mary Katherine Hand:
  “You could see him get off Marine One and not know how to walk into his own house. Like that is a problem.”

• [19:50] Carol Markowitz:
  “I think I'm waiting for a staffer book... somebody's got to be willing to break that code of silence.”

• [28:40] Carol Markowitz:
  “Who else does that? Who else does that?”

Conclusion

This episode of "Normally" provides a thorough examination of the troubling allegations surrounding President Biden's mental fitness, scrutinizes media biases, and contemplates the broader political ramifications. Mary Katherine Hand and Carol Markowitz offer insightful commentary, urging listeners to seek the truth behind the headlines and remain vigilant about the integrity of their nation's leadership.