What a terrible and strange thing to say.
President Joe Biden’s comments during a recent briefing on California’s ongoing wildfires have raised serious concerns about his lack of sensitivity in times of crisis. On Thursday, Biden, alongside senior administration officials, addressed the federal government’s role in responding to the raging fires in Los Angeles County. The wildfires, particularly in the Pacific Palisades area, have displaced thousands of residents and destroyed homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, leaving many families in dire straits.
During the briefing, after discussing the federal government’s emergency response plans, Biden made an ill-timed comment to Vice President Kamala Harris, who is from California. “Madam Vice President, I know you’re directly affected. So you fire away, no pun intended,” Biden quipped, referencing the wildfires with a joke about fire. This comment quickly drew ire from critics, with many on social media questioning the president’s empathy. RedState’s Bonchie expressed his disbelief, writing, “WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS DUDE?” Meanwhile, Townhall’s Kevin McMahon asked, “Is the empathy in the room with you now?”
Biden’s remarks came just a day after he faced criticism for another off-putting comment during a meeting with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and firefighters. Following the signing of a disaster declaration and reaffirming his support for the state, Biden chose to share personal news about becoming a great-grandfather. “The good news is I’m a great-grandfather as of today,” he said, an announcement that many felt was completely out of place in the context of the catastrophic wildfires.
This isn’t the first time Biden has been accused of inappropriate comments in the wake of a national disaster. Back in 2023, following the deadly wildfires in Maui that claimed over 100 lives, Biden made another questionable joke while interacting with first responders. Petting a search and rescue dog, Biden remarked on the canine’s boots, commenting, “That’s some hot ground, man,” a remark that many saw as tone-deaf.
In both instances, Biden’s casual remarks have raised concerns about his ability to empathize with the victims of natural disasters. For a president who often presents himself as a compassionate leader, these moments of insensitivity only serve to highlight a growing disconnect between his rhetoric and the reality of the crises American citizens face. His lack of emotional awareness has left many wondering whether he truly grasps the gravity of the situations unfolding on his watch.
WATCH:
White House briefing on California wildfires …
— Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) January 9, 2025
President Biden: "Madam Vice President, I know you're directly affected. So you fire away. No pun intended."
Madam Vice President: "Indeed." pic.twitter.com/rETiXTMzl0