President Obama Urged To Continue Drinking A Little Alcohol

One of the takeaways from President Barack Obama‘s physical over the weekend was that he’s still struggling to quit smoking.

But there was another vice mentioned as well: alcohol. And the characterization of his imbibing is a point of contention right now on several media outlets.

In the actual exam report, this is how it was phrased:

Continue smoking cessation efforts, a daily exercise program, healthy diet, moderation in alcohol intake, periodic dental care and remain up-to-date with recommended immunizations.

Now, here’s what Drudge is highlighting:

The link is to a Guardian write-up of the exam, which has this line, “The doctors also recommended “moderation of alcohol intake.'”

So here’s the takeaway: the doctor isn’t recommending the President cut down on his alcohol intake any more than he’s recommending he cut down on his exercising. He’s suggesting the President continue his moderate alcohol intake. We’ll let the National Review explain further:

In other words, Obama’s doctors are recommending that he continue his moderate drinking.

Alas, something as simple as excessive drinking is not the explanation for all of Obama’s actual excesses.

NBC White House Correspondent Chuck Todd called out the characterization by Drudge in a tweet: “Folks, some media outlets are pushing a totally misleading story regarding the president and drinking. Good grief folks, READ THE DOC note.”

So crisis averted…Pres. Obama’s alcohol consumption is just fine, according to his doctor. But does he smoke when he drinks?

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