White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre clarified President Biden's recent remarks, stating that his comments calling supporters of former President Trump 'garbage' were taken out of context. The remark has sparked controversy and drawn comparisons to Hillary Clinton's 'deplorables' comment during the 2016 presidential campaign.
During a virtual campaign call with Voto Latino, Biden criticized Trump's rally at Madison Square Garden, where a comedian made derogatory jokes about various ethnic groups, including Puerto Ricans. Biden's statement, 'The only garbage I see floating out there is his supporters,' was in reference to the comedian's remarks and not aimed at Trump supporters directly.
Jean-Pierre emphasized that Biden's use of the term 'garbage' was specifically directed at the hateful rhetoric about Puerto Rico expressed by a Trump supporter at the rally. She reiterated that Biden does not view Trump supporters or anyone who supports Trump as 'garbage.'
The Press Secretary highlighted that Biden's intention was to condemn the offensive language used by a Trump supporter and not to disparage all supporters of the former President. The clarification was issued to ensure that Biden's remarks were accurately understood and not misconstrued.
It is essential to consider the context in which public figures' statements are made to avoid misinterpretation and misrepresentation. In this case, the clarification provided by Jean-Pierre aims to address any confusion surrounding Biden's comments and reaffirm his respect for differing political viewpoints.