WASHINGTON: At the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, President Joe Biden showcased his signature wit, delivering a blend of humor and political satire amidst a backdrop of protests outside concerning his stance on Israel’s conflict with Hamas.
Inside the event, Biden’s comedic jabs included playful remarks about his age, humorously contrasting himself with former President Donald Trump. “Yes, age is an issue. I’m a grown man, running against a 6-year-old,” he quipped, eliciting laughter from attendees. Additionally, he amusingly highlighted Vice President Kamala Harris’s endorsement of his candidacy, underscoring their age disparity.
However, outside the Washington Hilton, where the dinner was held, protests unfolded, with demonstrators expressing opposition to Biden’s support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Chanting slogans and brandishing banners, protesters urged journalists to boycott the event and called for a ceasefire in the Middle East.
During his address to the press corps, Biden urged journalists to elevate the discourse beyond mere political spectacle, emphasizing the importance of focusing on substantive issues rather than indulging in sensationalism. “Move past the horse race numbers and the gotcha moments,” he implored, urging for a more serious engagement in political reporting.
The event unfolded amidst tight security measures, with Biden entering through a discreet back entrance to avoid the large protests. While Kelly O’Donnell, president of the White House Correspondents’ Association, refrained from commenting on specific security arrangements, the event occurred against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The White House Correspondents’ Association, established in 1914, has a storied tradition of hosting the annual dinner to honor journalists covering the presidency and raise funds for scholarships. This year’s event, however, was marked by a blend of celebration and protest, underscoring the polarized political climate in the United States.
