President Joe Biden delivered a humorous and self-deprecating speech at the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner, taking aim at his predecessor, Donald Trump, and poking fun at his own age. The event, attended by nearly 3,000 journalists, celebrities, and politicians, saw Biden jokingly refer to Trump as “Sleepy Don” and quip about their age difference.
Biden also drew a contrast between his reelection campaign, which has been gaining momentum since his State of the Union address, and Trump’s legal troubles related to an alleged hush money payment to Stormy Daniels. Comedian Colin Jost of “Saturday Night Live” also took jabs at Trump’s legal issues, adding to the light-hearted atmosphere of the evening.
However, outside the venue, a group of pro-Palestinian protesters highlighted the criticism Biden faces over his handling of the war in Gaza. The protesters accused attendees of cosigning the president’s actions in the conflict and called for solidarity with journalists killed in the region.
Despite the festive atmosphere inside, the event underscored the challenges facing Biden’s administration, including his approval rating and questions about his mental acuity. The president’s speech, while humorous, also touched on serious issues such as press freedom and the threat of a second Trump presidency.
The evening showcased Biden’s sense of humor and ability to engage with the media and the public. As the 2024 election looms, the event provided a platform for the president to connect with voters and donors while navigating the complexities of domestic and international issues.