He’s taking aim at Trump.
In a recent interview with NBC News anchor Lester Holt, President Joe Biden addressed concerns about his rhetoric in relation to the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Biden defended his statements, suggesting that the real issue lies with Trump’s inflammatory language rather than his own. Some of Trump’s supporters have claimed that Biden and other Democrats have contributed to a hostile environment, including criticism of Biden’s private comments about making Trump a “bull’s-eye.”
Biden admitted that using the term “bull’s-eye” was a mistake but dismissed broader criticisms, arguing that such language was merely a figure of speech. He emphasized that Trump has been more responsible for promoting violent rhetoric. Biden clarified that his intention was to focus on Trump’s actions and policies, rather than incite violence. He pointed out that unlike Trump, he did not attempt to undermine the electoral process or act like a dictator.
When asked if he had reconsidered his language in light of the assassination attempt, Biden noted that the threats posed by his opponent were significant and warranted discussion. He questioned whether it would be appropriate to remain silent about the threat to democracy posed by Trump’s statements, suggesting that avoiding discussion could be problematic.
Biden’s remarks contrast with his Sunday evening Oval Office address, where he urged Americans to “lower the temperature” of political discourse and avoid viewing political opponents as enemies.
