Nine inquiries George Stephanopoulos needs to pose to Joe Biden

As President Joe Biden prepares for his interview with ABC's George Stephanopoulos on Friday, this is set to be the most significant conversation of his tenure. Moreover, this will probably be one of the most challenging interviews Stephanopoulos has ever held.

This comes as the first public discourse from Biden after his struggling debate performance. This interview can either assuage Democrats' concerns over his capability to govern or fuel them further. Observers are particularly interested in what Biden has to say and most importantly, how he conveys his thoughts.

Throughout his presidency, Biden has been criticized for rarely engaging in extended interviews. However, he now needs the media's support. On the contrary, the situation presents a challenge for Stephanopoulos as he will need to tactfully confront the president at this crucial juncture of his presidency — all while maintaining respect, effectively using the limited time, and not becoming the highlight of the story himself. This is where meticulous preparation and brain-storming sessions with peers become useful.

Gathered here are nine critical questions we would put forth to Biden if we were in Stephanopoulos' shoes, and why.

Have you undergone any tests for neurological conditions? Have you received any such diagnosis? Considering you are the oldest-ever U.S. president, would you commit to fully disclosing all your medical records, including those which you haven't released yet?

In this interview, the main focus should be Biden's health, and it's crucial to question him about this publicly significant matter. If he denies any part of this, challenge his response by referencing ongoing reports about his health issues in the New York Times.

Mr. President, could you explain your experience during the times when you seem to fumble for words or find it hard to express your thoughts? Can you elaborate on what you're going through during such instances?

This question aims to gather more insight into Biden's self-evaluation of his competence. Understanding his internal experience during his observable struggling moments is a crucial aspect of Biden's narrative.

Could you express your concerns about the Supreme Court's immunity and Chevron decisions?

A politician should be able to address these issues proficiently and lucidly, providing an opportunity to assess Biden's mental dexterity regarding intricate topics. However, ensure that he doesn't use this moment to deviate and waste valuable time.

Were you aware of your staff's concerted efforts to limit your interview schedule, inadvertently misrepresenting your health to the public? Do you think this could have created a false perception of your wellbeing?

Question Biden about his awareness of his own campaign and White House operations. Biden's inner circle is known to protect him from unwarranted scrutiny, but it is now clear that this protective shell was obscuring the president's declining health. Can he or his team be held accountable?

With reflection on your comment about your global travels and debate preps at Camp David, do you believe Americans deserve a president who can recover quicker from the demanding tasks of running a reelection campaign, along with performing presidential duties?

Question Biden about one of his recent confessions concerning his debate performance.

If you decide to resign in the forthcoming days or weeks for the benefit of your party, will you throw your support behind Vice President Kamala Harris?

Urge Biden to comment on his support for Harris. Last week's debate saw Harris advocating for abortion rights, leaving her supporters disgruntled about the discussion shifting towards potential replacement candidates instead of her. Is Biden prepared to back Harris?

If polls are to be believed, voters seem willing to back Democratic policies and candidates, but not you. Wouldn't stepping aside improve the Democrats' chances this fall?

Ask Biden whether his belief that he is the only one capable of defeating Trump is a sign of arrogance. Conversations within Washington's political circles often hint at Biden being selfish for not stepping down when called upon by Democrats. Is it fair for him to place his interests above those of the republic?

Do Senate colleagues like Strom Thurmond, Robert Byrd, and Dianne Feinstein, who continued their tenures into their 80s and 90s despite severe health concerns, influence your thoughts about age?

As someone who spent over three decades in the Senate before serving as vice president under President Barack Obama, it's likely that Biden's interactions in the Senate are currently influencing him. This question could elicit a more introspective response from Biden.

You suggested challenging President Trump to a round of golf if he carried his own bags. Would you clarify the exact meaning implied by this statement?

This might lead Biden to expound on his remarks about Trump during the debate and make his case about Trump getting a free pass. If Biden avoids answering the question directly, push him further: “Mr. President, are you insinuating that he's overweight and unfit?”

Contributors to this report include John Harris, Alex Burns, Jeff Greenfield, Adam Wren and Brakkton Booker.