A roller coaster election in the US

Hillary Clinton’s new health concerns add more drama to this unconventional contest

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton departs for a September 11 anniversary ceremony in New York Andrew Harnik / AP Photo

The race between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump is unlike anything we have ever seen before in an American presidential election. Both candidates have historically low approval ratings that have only declined because of over-the-top statements and questions over transparency. The latest event in this unpredictable election is the announcement that Hillary Clinton has been suffering from pneumonia.

After the Democratic candidate was caught buckling at the knees as she was getting into a black van leaving a September 11 memorial event in New York City, her campaign was forced to disclose the recent diagnosis. Conservative media has made a point to highlight Mrs Clinton’s health concerns over recent weeks but until now, these reports have been widely dismissed as a mild form of conspiracy theory. It appears there was merit in these allegations all along.

Many Americans already have trust issues with Mrs Clinton. She has run a secretive campaign that has been constantly under fire for her use of a private email server while she was secretary of state. The health issues will not inspire comfort, given that both Mr Trump, 70, and Mrs Clinton, 68, are among the oldest to run for office. Ronald Reagan, the oldest president to assume office, was a few days away from his 70th birthday when he moved into the White House in 1981. Since the beginning of this unpredictable campaign, Mrs Clinton has been the shoo-in candidate barring some unforeseen event. Her health issues could be that moment.

While it is tempting to get wrapped up in the drama – and there will be much more of it this week as the media digests the latest revelations – it is important to note that there is still close to two months until Americans go to the polls. There will be presidential debates and almost surely gaffes from campaigns (think, Mr Trump’s) as we approach November 8. This election has always been unconventional. Perhaps the only guarantee that can be offered is that the twists and turns will continue until the votes are counted.