In an era where cameras are always rolling and the internet never sleeps, Joe Biden has once again found himself in the midst of controversy. This time, during a campaign stop in Pittsburgh, Biden’s actions have stirred the pot and set the digital world ablaze. The incident in question? A moment caught on video where Biden appears to rub a young girl’s face in what many are calling a “creepy” manner. This gesture, captured during a local news segment about his visit to pitch higher tariffs on Chinese steel manufacturers, has quickly overshadowed his economic message.
Now, let’s cut through the noise and get down to brass tacks. In the video, we see Biden rubbing the cheek of a young girl standing beside him on stage with the back of his hand. The girl, for her part, smiles awkwardly and plays along. It’s a scene that, at best, can be described as uncomfortable to watch. At worst, it’s fuel for Biden’s critics who have long accused him of inappropriate behavior.
???? here we go again folks.
There is something very wrong here. pic.twitter.com/MURVeuKQuM— ????Robert The Builder ???????? (@NobodymrRobert) April 17, 2024
Biden, in his prepared remarks, emphasized his desire for “fair competition with China, not conflict,” highlighting America’s investment in its workers as a strength in the 21st-century economic competition. However, this message has been largely drowned out by the uproar following the video’s circulation.
The President’s visit to Pennsylvania, a critical battleground state where he has trailed former President Donald Trump in polls, was supposed to bolster his re-election campaign. Yet, this latest misstep may inflict damage on his carefully cultivated grandfatherly image. KTVZ reports indicate that Biden was in Scranton to discuss tax policy with union workers before heading to Philadelphia for rallies, setting up a contrast with Trump, who is currently embroiled in a hush money trial in Manhattan district court.
Critics, including Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (R-CO), have been quick to condemn Biden, referencing past incidents where he has been accused of sniffing young girls’ hair. One Republican Senate candidate from South Carolina responded to the video with a vomiting emoji, while others on social media questioned the judgment of parents allowing such interactions.
This isn’t the first time Biden’s behavior around children has caused discomfort. Past incidents and allegations, including those by Tara Reade, a former staffer who has accused Biden of sexual harassment, continue to cast a shadow over his presidency.