Trump Criticizes Biden Over Stumble at Academy Graduation: 'Not Inspiring'
Former President Donald Trump responded to a video clip showing President Joe Biden tripping at the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation ceremony that took place on Thursday, June 1st. The incident soon went viral, drawing the attention of the former president.
Reflecting on Biden's stumble during an Iowa town hall, Trump stated, "Did he really take a fall? Well, my hope is that he wasn't injured," he continued, "The entire situation is baffling. It's critical to exercise caution in such circumstances... even if it means walking cautiously down the stage."
Trump further commented, "Falling in such a place... it's not motivating at all."
During the event, President Biden, aged 80, tripped over a sandbag but was unharmed. He later lightened the moment with a quip: "I got sandbagged!" he shared with the press afterward.
White House Communications Director Ben LaBolt clarified the situation on Twitter, dispelling public worry. He tweeted, "He's perfectly alright. There was a sandbag on stage while he was greeting people."
This incident fuels the ongoing public concern about Biden's age as the President is expected to campaign for the 2024 elections. His public stumbles have been a recurring concern.
Edward Luce from the Financial Times brought up a similar incident during the Financial Times Weekend Festival on May 20. "There was that moment when he almost fell while descending the stairs a day or two ago," Luce said. "He didn't hold onto a railing, and Jill was not present."
Luce then asked Hillary Clinton, "Each time something like this happens, one's heart skips a beat because such things could have serious implications. Is that a concern?"
Clinton responded, acknowledging Biden's age as a legitimate concern, "Of course, people have every right to consider it." Clinton, however, defended Biden's tenacity and record in office. "But, he often says — and I agree — don't compare him with the Almighty, but the alternative. He is committed to running; he has achieved a good record that, three years ago, nobody would have anticipated. He doesn't get enough recognition for the job growth and future planning happening across the country with initiatives like CHIPS and more. So, my hope is that he remains focused and capable of competing in the election because I believe he can win again, and that's what we should all aspire to."