I was gonna say the same thing. He disappeared from public view for the better part of a week, may be a bit longer to prepare him, and this is the best they could do.
I’ll accept voice being a bit hoarse due to a cold as that as human nature in those situations. However, looking at the totality of what he said tonight, in the past, it doesn’t fly as an excuse anymore.
He spent the last week in quarantine with his handlers, preparing talking points, holding mock debates, practicing one-liners and zingers, etc. and demanding ice cream. Of course his voice is gravelly!
Regards,