During the annual Gridiron Club dinner, President Biden took aim at presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump and the press, making several remarks that ranged from humorous to serious.
Biden joked about his age and mental fitness compared to Trump, stating, 'One candidate’s too old and mentally unfit to be president. The other guy’s me.' He also poked fun at the press, mentioning the low expectations they had for him and referencing the Wordle website's foray into news.
The Gridiron Club, a club for journalists, hosts this annual event featuring speeches and skits that often involve light-hearted jabs at political figures.
On a more serious note, Biden addressed the issue of journalists facing challenges, highlighting the wrongful detention of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in Russia and the abduction of Austin Tice in Syria. He assured that his administration was working to bring them home.
Biden also warned about the risks to democracy, emphasizing the crucial role of journalism in providing context and perspective to the American people. He stressed the importance of good journalism in reflecting the truth about the country.
Additionally, Biden commented on Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell's decision to step down as GOP leader, expressing his reluctance to see a friend give up his position.
The president's remarks come as both he and Trump secured their parties' nominations, setting the stage for a potential rematch of their 2020 battle.