In a recent New York Times column, Ross Douthat explores the repercussions of President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the presidential race, focusing on the concealed health issues and their potential impact on the Democratic party.

Douthat critiques the handling of Biden's campaign and health, speculating on its implications for future crises and Democratic Party strategies, as Fox News reports.

The column, published on Saturday, delves into how Biden's health concerns were reportedly obscured by those closest to him. Amidst significant global and national challenges, Biden has made limited public appearances, participating in just one event last week.

Insiders reportedly pushed for Biden's re-election bid despite signs of his deteriorating condition. This has raised concerns about the transparency and decision-making processes within his inner circle.

Douthat points out that since Biden is no longer a candidate, the "scandal" surrounding his capacity has lessened, though it remains a critical issue as he continues to hold office.

Contrasting Age Dynamics in U.S. Politics

The age and vigor of political figures like former President Donald Trump, who is 78, and Biden, are now starkly contrasted with younger politicians. This shift brings a new dynamic to the political landscape, according to Douthat.

Biden's agenda for the remaining six months of his term appears to be significantly reduced, a strategy possibly intended to manage his health more effectively.

Meanwhile, global tensions rise as an unspecified nation takes aggressive actions, drawing U.S. foreign policy into question under Biden's reduced schedule.

Public and Political Reactions to Biden's Capacity

The public discourse seems insufficient regarding Biden's capability to effectively continue his presidency. Douthat criticizes the lack of serious questions being raised about Biden's fitness for office.

Vice President Kamala Harris has seen an uptick in her poll ratings following Biden's campaign withdrawal. This shift might position her favorably against Trump in upcoming elections, as suggested by a close race in seven swing states.

Despite the controversy, the White House has remained silent on these issues, declining to comment on queries from media outlets like Fox News Digital.

Speculations on Future Crises and Democratic Strategy

Douthat speculates on potential future crises that could test the Democratic leadership's decision to keep Biden in office despite his health issues. He suggests that this might lead to regrets if Biden seems overmatched in handling these situations.

"It’s possible, depending on Biden’s true capacities, that by rights he should have resigned and Harris should be president already -- which probably would have put her in a better position to win the election even than her current honeymoon does," states Douthat in his column.

"It’s also possible that there will come a crisis in the next few months that will make the Democrats wish that he’d resigned, rather than staying and then seeming overmatched," he continues.

Media Coverage and Public Perception

Douthat comments on the ongoing portrayal of Biden as a figure of "self-sacrifice," which contrasts sharply with the behind-the-scenes concerns about his health. This narrative, Douthat argues, benefits Harris as she gains positive media coverage and leads in some polls.

The columnist also criticizes those around Biden who supported his candidacy for another term, despite obvious challenges: "The people who readily signed up for another four years of a 10-to-4 presidency are still running the government around him," he asserts.

Global incidents, like the recent aggressive move by a nation the U.S. has been arming, highlight the need for more transparency about the operation of the White House, suggests Douthat.

Evaluating the Coverage of Presidential Health and Politics

In his closing remarks, Douthat expresses concern over the minimized discussion of Biden's health since his withdrawal.

"The potential scale of that scandal has diminished now that the country is no longer being asked to entrust the Oval Office to Biden for another four years," he notes.

Yet, he emphasizes that the situation remains critical as Biden still commands the presidency, albeit on a "scaled-down schedule."