President Joe Biden has faced sharp criticism from conservative circles following his commencement address at Howard University on Saturday, May 13. During his speech to the graduating class of 2023, he identified white supremacy as the "most dangerous terrorist threat" to the United States, a statement that has incited a wave of backlash on social media platforms.
In his speech, the 80-year-old President acknowledged the historical struggles of the nation, saying, "American history has not always been a fairy tale. It's been a perpetual struggle for more than 240 years, between our ideals – that we're all created equal – and the grim reality that racism has long divided us."
He also underscored the ongoing battle against racism and white supremacy, stating, "It's a battle that's never really over. But on our best days, enough of us have the courage and conviction to uphold our highest ideals, choosing love over hate, unity over division, and progress over retreat…"
In reference to white supremacy, Biden reiterated his inaugural address stance, labeling it as the "most dangerous terrorist threat to our homeland." His comments were met with applause from the audience of graduates and family members.
However, the President's remarks ignited a backlash on Twitter, with many critics expressing their disapproval.
Jake Schneider from RNC Research dubbed Biden as the "divider-in-chief," criticizing his comments about white supremacy. Another user questioned the sudden emphasis on white supremacy as America's biggest threat, noting that it was not a common narrative in previous decades.
Reporter Julie Kelly responded to Biden's speech by accusing him of perpetuating dangerous racial division and labeling him a "pathological liar." Similarly, New York Post journalist Miranda Devine characterized Biden's comments as "pure evil."
Others pointed out perceived hypocrisy in Biden's statements. One user quipped, "So, the white president of the United States is complaining about 'white supremacy.' Got it." Another echoed this sentiment, sarcastically pointing out the irony of a privileged white man denouncing white supremacy.
Despite the backlash, President Biden maintained his stance, stating that his message was not confined to the historically black university, but was one he reiterated wherever he went.