President Joe Biden’s recent comments at the NATO summit have ignited widespread speculation and debate over who is truly in charge of the United States government. In a video posted on the verified X (formerly Twitter) account of journalist Simon Ateba on July 12, 2024, Biden stated that he is taking guidance from several top military and intelligence officials. However, his phrasing has caused quite a stir.
Biden’s Controversial Statement
During his speech, Biden said, “I’m following the advice of my commander-in-chief, the chief of staff of the military, as well as the secretary of defense and our intelligence people.” This statement has raised eyebrows because Biden himself is the commander-in-chief. The peculiar phrasing has led to a flurry of reactions on social media, with many questioning who might actually be pulling the strings behind the scenes.
Social Media Reactions
Simon Ateba’s video quickly gained traction, leading to a wave of speculation. One user, @TrutherAmerica, recalled a past comment by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, suggesting that Biden is merely a figurehead executing the long-term plans of figures like Barack Obama and Pelosi. The tweet stated, “Remember back when Nancy said that Build Back Better was Obama’s agenda? Obama and Pelosi have been playing the long game with Biden.”
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Another user, @CashLorenShow, directly questioned who might be influencing Biden, asking, “Jill, Hunter, or Obama?” This comment introduces the possibility that Biden’s wife, Jill Biden, or his son, Hunter Biden, might have significant sway over his decisions. This theory has been a recurrent theme among Biden’s critics.
Broader Speculation and Theories
The speculation doesn’t end there. User @BarreraRuth suggested, “Obama and the squad,” referring to the influence of progressive lawmakers in Congress. Another user, @RRomanyshy27182, confidently stated, “Obama obviously. Everybody called that one a long time ago,” echoing a common belief that Obama still wields considerable influence over the current administration.
Context and Concerns
The debate over Biden’s leadership is not new. Throughout his presidency, there have been ongoing concerns about his cognitive abilities, fueled by his occasional gaffes and moments of apparent confusion during public appearances. Critics argue that these incidents indicate that Biden might not be fully in control of his administration.
The presence of key figures from the Obama administration within Biden’s team, such as Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, adds weight to the theory of Obama’s continued influence. Their significant roles during Obama’s tenure suggest a continuity between the two administrations, reinforcing the perception of Obama’s behind-the-scenes control.
Influence of Jill and Hunter Biden
Jill Biden, known for her active role in the White House, is believed by some to play a crucial part in shaping Biden’s decisions and actions. Similarly, Hunter Biden’s controversial business dealings have led to scrutiny and theories about his potential influence on his father’s presidency.
Implications and Public Perception
These speculations, often rooted in partisan views and conspiracy theories, reflect a broader unease and mistrust among certain segments of the population regarding the current administration’s transparency and decision-making processes. The idea that a president might not be fully in control challenges the fundamental democratic principle that elected leaders are the ones making decisions on behalf of the people.
The speculation surrounding Biden’s NATO statement underscores the ongoing debates about his leadership and the possible influence of other powerful figures within the Democratic Party. As the administration continues to navigate these controversies, the public remains divided on who truly holds the reins of power in the United States.
