President Joe Biden responded to the recent uproar over the Special Counsel report by humorously addressing his age and memory during a nonpartisan White House event, earning a positive reaction from the crowd. Special Counsel Robert Hur’s report, released on Thursday, brought relief to Biden as it indicated no charges against him. However, the report contained damaging remarks about his handling of sensitive documents and memory.
Biden’s fiery response to the report in a press scrum on Thursday night was followed by similar reactions from other officials and allies. During a Monday event at the Washington Hilton, where he addressed the National Association of Counties Legislative Conference, Biden made a pointed reference to the criticisms about his age and memory.
The audience at the Hilton responded enthusiastically to Biden’s introduction. In a segment of his speech, he inserted a lighthearted comment about his age and memory, prompting laughter and a sustained cheer:
“My administration is also helping install rooftop solar, to build a national network of electric vehicle charging stations. We’re revitalizing fenceline communities smothered by the legacy of pollution, like where I lived in Claremont.
We’re promoting clean energy in industries of the future. Made here in America. Made in America!
What I didn’t realize, and I’ve been around — I know I don’t look like I’ve been around awhile. (laughter)
I do remember that.
(cheers and applause)
But, you know, there’s so much we’re getting done. I signed the CHIPS and Science — (indistinct shout) Okay. I signed the CHIPS and Science Act.”
According to pool reports, the ballroom at the Hilton, known for hosting the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, was filled from front to back in anticipation of the president’s arrival. Biden’s playful acknowledgment of the criticisms about his age and memory seemed to resonate positively with the audience at the event.
