Biden diagnosed with COVID-19

President Joe Biden was scheduled to speak at the annual Unidos US conference in Las Vegas on Wednesday, but he unexpectedly canceled his appearance. Unidos US President and CEO Janet Murguía told those in attendance she personally spoke by phone to the president, who informed her of his COVID-19 diagnosis, according to a livestream of her remarks. Audience members could be heard on the livestream reacting with gasps and moans as the diagnosis was announced.

Has the White House said anything about Biden’s condition? Early Wednesday evening, the White House issued a statement saying the president is vaccinated and his symptoms are minor. The president’s doctor said Biden was tested for COVID-19 after exhibiting symptoms including a runny nose, a nonproductive cough, and a general feeling of malaise. After testing positive, his symptoms remained mild, with a respiratory rate of 16, a temperature of 97.8, and pulse oximetry at 97 percent, the doctor said. He has also received his first dose of the medication Paxlovid, according to the White House statement. Biden plans to return to Delaware, where he will self-isolate and continue his regular duties as president.

Dig deeper: Read Leo Briceno’s report on Dr. Anthony Fauci’s admission that the idea that COVID-19 leaked from a Chinese lab is not a conspiracy theory.