The White House is desperately defending him.
President Joe Biden faced criticism and controversy regarding a proclamation issued on Friday that coincided with Easter Sunday being recognized as Transgender Day of Visibility. The proclamation honored the courage and contributions of transgender Americans, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to equality. This move sparked outrage, with figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson accusing the administration of disregarding Easter’s religious significance.
Biden, however, appeared to distance himself from the proclamation during the White House Easter Egg Roll, stating he “didn’t do that” and dismissing Johnson’s remarks as misinformed. Johnson countered by pointing to the document bearing Biden’s signature, suggesting the president might not be fully aware of what he signs, raising concerns about his awareness and decision-making.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attempted to address the backlash by asserting that the timing was coincidental, as Transgender Day of Visibility consistently falls on March 31 each year. She criticized Republicans for exploiting the situation, emphasizing Biden’s commitment to unity and the dignity of all Americans.
Jean-Pierre also highlighted how Transgender Day of Visibility has been observed for years, with FOX network even acknowledging it in a past tweet. However, she noted that the network’s coverage omitted certain details, suggesting a bias.
In essence, the controversy surrounding the proclamation reflects broader tensions between social issues and religious traditions. While the administration sought to recognize the transgender community’s struggles, critics viewed it as a slight against Easter’s religious significance. The incident also raised questions about Biden’s awareness of his own actions and decisions as president.
