Former President Bill Clinton, 78, addressed delegates at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday with a raspy voice and trembling hands. He hinted that he might not attend future Democratic conventions due to his health. His 27-minute speech included reflections on his mortality and support for Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz.
Viewers were taken aback by Clinton’s appearance, noting his unsteady demeanour and slow speech. They posted their reactions on the social media platform X.
Clinton began by acknowledging his long history with Democratic conventions, saying, “I want to say this from the bottom of my heart: I have no idea how many more of these I’ll be able to come to. I started in ’76 and I’ve been to every one since — no, ’72. Lord, I’m getting old.” He humorously added, “And the only personal vanity I want to assert is I’m still younger than Donald Trump,” who turned 78 in June.
During his speech, Clinton praised retiring President Biden, who is currently vacationing at a donor’s $37 million California ranch. “I want to thank him for his courage, compassion, class, service, and sacrifice,” Clinton said. “He kept the faith and he’s inspired many of us.”
Notably, Clinton did not use a teleprompter and opted for the old-fashioned approach, referring to notes in front of him. Reports indicate that due to last-minute changes, he was unable to load his speech into the teleprompter.
Clinton also remarked on Biden's decision to step down from political power, stating, “he voluntarily gave up political power.”