Former Washington Post fact-checker, Glenn Kessler, found himself in a rather illuminating exchange with independent journalist Mark Halperin, where he was pressed on the paper’s perceived bias regarding Joe Biden’s cognitive abilities.
In a moment reminiscent of a deer caught in headlights, Kessler grappled to justify the Washington Post’s lack of balanced reporting on this contentious issue. Surprisingly, he let slip that the outlet seemed more invested in countering conservative narratives than in pursuing an objective truth about Biden’s mental fitness.
To Halperin’s credit, he did not let Kessler evade the pressing questions, insisting on a more straightforward examination of the facts. For those interested, the full exchange is worth watching below.
Transcript via Real Clear Politics:
MARK HALPERIN, HOST: When you evaluated the videos circulating in conservative media that purported to showcase President Biden’s cognitive decline, what was your conclusion in the Fact Checker department?
GLENN KESSLER, FORMER WASHINGTON POST FACT-CHECKER: You mean the incident where he seemingly wandered off to chat with parachutists? That fact check focused specifically on how that video was represented across various news platforms.
MARK HALPERIN: Exactly.
GLENN KESSLER: We retrieved the full video to provide complete context because the way it was edited and distributed, particularly by the RNC, suggested that Biden was aimlessly wandering without engaging anyone. Our fact check revealed that he was indeed speaking with parachutists. I’ve mentioned before that fact checks should complement news coverage, not serve as a mere addendum.
Yes, indeed. Regarding the overall context in the Washington Post’s coverage, we did address questions about his age. Some columnists suggested he ought not to run again.
And that particular fact check was solely about that video circulated by the RNC.
MARK HALPERIN: I understand, but the weight of the Pinocchios and the significance of your fact checks lead many to interpret that the Washington Post is suggesting that the video does not accurately reflect Biden’s cognitive decline. That’s the impression people take away.
Watch the entire discussion here:
Dropping soon: an explosive new @NextUpHalperin.@MarkHalperin interviews with @GlennKesslerWP, former Washington fact checker.
WATCH: Kessler’s stunning justification of his Biden “Deepfake” fact check.
Stay tuned for MUCH more… pic.twitter.com/Lo78lvWHtI
— Next Up with Mark Halperin (@NextUpHalperin) August 7, 2025
In a recent shift, Kessler opted for a buyout from the Washington Post rather than adhering to new policies aimed at fostering a more balanced editorial stance. His departure may not leave a significant void in the realm of journalism.
