In Washington, President Biden lightened the mood with a joke about former President Donald Trump at the Gridiron Club Dinner. He cleverly turned the conversation about his age back on Trump as the election season began. However, he didn’t miss the chance to highlight the serious threats facing democracy and freedom in the U.S. and around the world.
At his first time attending the annual dinner, Mr. Biden addressed a room full of journalists and leaders. He humorously mentioned that both presidential candidates had secured their nominations, jokingly describing one as “too old, mentally unfit to be president” before revealing, “The other’s me.”
The President didn’t stop there. He humorously targeted his political opponent, making light of Trump’s mix-up over running against Barack Obama in 2024 and an amusing incident where Trump mistakenly called his wife by the wrong name.
“And another big difference between us — I know what I value most,” Mr. Biden said. “I’m Jill Biden’s husband. And I know her name.”
But the tone shifted as the President spoke on more grave matters, pointing out the threats to democracy and freedom. He proudly mentioned his administration’s achievements, which were accomplished without harming the economy, causing international embarrassment, or inciting insurrection — a clear jab at Trump.
“Look, I wish these were jokes but they’re not,” he continued. Mr. Biden expressed concern over the current state of democracy, mentioning Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggressive actions in Europe and Trump’s encouragement for Putin to disregard NATO allies who don’t meet defense spending expectations.
The President emphasized that freedom at home is also “under assault,” referring to issues like voting rights and abortion. He highlighted the ongoing threat to democracy, stemming from attempts to overturn the 2020 election, describing it as a “poison” in our democracy’s veins.
Last year’s dinner also had its serious moments, with former Vice President Mike Pence delivering a strong critique of Trump, suggesting that “history will hold Donald Trump accountable” for his refusal to accept the election results.
This year’s event also featured speeches from Utah Gov. Spencer Cox and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, adding to the diverse perspectives shared.
Fin Gomez contributed to this report, offering a comprehensive look at the discussions that took place at this significant event.