Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the physician to President Joe Biden, has recently found himself in the spotlight following questions about the 81-year-old president's mental and physical capacity to serve a second term. O'Connor, a former Army surgeon, has been overseeing Biden's medical care and assessments, including the most recent physical exam in February, where he declared Biden fit for duty without any exemptions or accommodations.
Despite O'Connor's assessment, some Republican lawmakers are now calling for him to appear before Congress to address concerns about Biden's health and medical care. There are also questions about why cognitive testing has not been conducted on the president.
O'Connor, who has a close relationship with Biden dating back over a decade, has been a key figure in the president's medical team. He previously served in the White House Medical Unit during the Bush administration and rejoined Biden as his personal physician when he became president in 2021.
Known for his affable nature and expertise, O'Connor has been a trusted advisor to the Biden family, particularly during the illness and passing of Beau Biden, the president's eldest son. O'Connor's role extends beyond medical care, as he often provides emotional support and counsel to those around him.
Despite his largely behind-the-scenes role, O'Connor's reputation for candor, attention to detail, and work ethic has earned him respect within the medical community. However, some House Republicans are seeking to investigate O'Connor's ties to Biden family businesses and his alleged connection to James Biden, the president's brother.
Prior to his tenure in the White House, O'Connor served as the command surgeon for the Army's 'Delta Force' and has a distinguished military background, including combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also teaches part-time at George Washington University's medical school.
In response to the scrutiny, the White House has dismissed the allegations against O'Connor as 'ridiculous and insulting,' emphasizing his expertise and dedication to his role as the president's physician.
