Considering their different approaches towards various things, including handling of the coronavirus pandemic, it was hardly surprising that President Donald Trump and President-elect Joe Biden delivered starkly different messages on Christmas. While the Democrat talked about the pain that the pandemic has wrought, the president made the most distant reference to the still-raging pandemic.
In a video posted to his official Twitter account, Biden reminded the people of what he described as "our common humanity." He, along with Jill Biden, wished American families peace, joy, health, and happiness this season, but noted this had been a very difficult year for so many people in the nation.
He went on to speak about the struggles of finding work during this crisis and how it has made it hard to even put food on the table, pay rent, or mortgage. Biden said the crisis reminded people that they on this earth to care for one another, and give what they can, and to be a source of help and hope not only to friends but even strangers, per Yahoo News.
Following the public health guidelines, Biden said Jill would not be meeting with extended family this year. He said the Bidens usually have 20 to 25 people for dinner over Christmas Eve, but they will be breaking this tradition this year. Although people will be missing their families, Biden said it is imperative for Americans to limit travel and keep the size of family gatherings small this year to keep our families safe.
Trump, on the other hand, issued a White House statement that seems to ignore the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed nearly 330,000 lives across the nation. The only time he appeared to be alluding to the pandemic was when he stated that their gatherings might look different than in previous years.
The president sent warmest wishes from the first lady Melania Trump and himself to all Americans as they celebrate Christmas, according to NBC News. He went on to say Christmas is an opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and express gratitude for the abundant blessings God has provided in their lives and country.
Without mentioning anything about limiting family gatherings or traveling, Trump spoke about the love they share with family and friends. The president offered his thanks to frontline medical professionals, law enforcement officers, first responders, and military families who, he said, work tirelessly to protect and serve their communities.
Trump took to his Twitter one day before Christmas to post a video wherein he and Melania Trump spoke about the pandemic at length. Noting that the nation is battling a global pandemic that has affected Americans, the first lady offered her thanks to teachers, military members, medical workers, first responders, and many others.