Joe Biden underwent a colonoscopy today ahead of his 79th birthday and temporarily passed his powers over to Vice President Kamala Harris.

The president arrived at Walter Reed Hospital on Friday morning to undergo the invasive procedure. According to a report from TheSun, A colonoscopy is an exam used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine and rectum.

While the president was under anesthetic, Vice President Kamala Harris took over his role. Axios reported, Why it matters: The move made Harris the first woman to hold presidential power in U.S. history. Biden also received his first annual physical as president.


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Biden transferred power to Harris at 10:10 a.m. and resumed his duties around 11:35 a.m., the White House said. What they’re saying: “Certainly today was another chapter in that history,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki said when asked about the brief transfer of power. “I think that will be noted for many women, young girls across the country.”