The White House is addressing criticism surrounding first lady Jill Biden's role and responsibilities as President Joe Biden faces challenges in his presidency. Elizabeth Alexander, the deputy assistant to the president and communications director to the first lady, emphasized that the first lady's role has never been that of a political or policy advisor. She highlighted that while the Bidens make decisions together, politics remains primarily the president's domain.
Alexander acknowledged the unique pressures faced by first ladies, including Jill Biden, in the current social media-driven environment. She expressed concern over the heightened scrutiny and expectations placed on the first lady, noting the delicate balance between being supportive and avoiding undue speculation about motives.
Addressing rumors about President Biden's health, Alexander categorically denied any suggestion that the first lady is concealing a medical condition. She reiterated that such claims are baseless and unfounded.
Furthermore, a close ally of the president and the first lady dismissed calls for Jill Biden to take on a more prominent role, labeling them as unfair and unreasonable. The ally emphasized that the first lady is not an elected official, political strategist, or campaign manager, and should not be burdened with the responsibility of shaping the Democratic Party's future.
The ally affirmed that Jill Biden will continue to support and defend the president, but stressed that expecting her to play a more active political role is unjustified. The White House remains steadfast in its position that the first lady's primary focus is on supporting her husband's career, rather than engaging directly in political decision-making.
