Does anyone remember the last time the presumptive Democrat presidential nominee had a press conference? It has been so long that I can't recall either. Have you ever wondered why? I certainly have.

Joe Biden is trying to make the case that Donald J. Trump should be sent packing after the November election but is doing a poor job of it. For most of the summer, Biden has remained out of sight. He seems to have spent much his time holed up in his basement while releasing carefully orchestrated media statements. From time to time, a video will emerge, which leads to more questions about his mental capabilities than his positions on issues.

Biden recently named Sen. Kamala Harris of California as his running mate, and since that time, neither has answered questions from the press. Isn't that a bit odd?

When someone is attempting to convince you to elect them to the highest political position in the land, you would think they would want as much media time as possible. But Joe Biden seems to have a different political strategy: duck and cover.

By avoiding the press, Biden gives the impression that he either has something to hide or that he is incapable of answering tough questions. Not that the media would ask him any tough questions, but just in case.

Contrast that to incumbent President Donald J. Trump, who seems to be just about everywhere and often holds multiple press availabilities in a single day, never shying away from any question that might arise.

Biden is being kept away from the press with just days to go before he is to accept his party's nomination. With COVID-19 limiting campaign appearances, Biden's handlers have got to figure out a way to give the voters access to the candidate, or they risk increasing speculation that their man is simply not up to the task.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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