During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the president’s claim, “Truth is, I’m the only president this century that doesn’t have – this decade – any troops dying anywhere in the world like he did.” Jean-Pierre explained that Biden was comparing the number of service members who died under his leadership versus previous years.
Critics quickly pointed out that U.S. troops have indeed died during Biden’s tenure. Notably, 13 service members were killed in a suicide bombing at Hamid Karzai International Airport during the chaotic evacuation of Afghanistan, and three more died in a drone attack on a base in Jordan in January.
Jean-Pierre acknowledged these events and emphasized Biden’s empathy and respect for the military. She highlighted Biden’s participation in dignified transfer ceremonies for fallen service members and his deep care for them and their families.
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The debate misstatement sparked discussions about Biden’s attentiveness and awareness of military losses, drawing further scrutiny to his leadership and age. Critics also recalled Biden’s controversial watch-checking incident during the transfer ceremony for the 13 fallen service members from the Kabul airport bombing.
Despite these criticisms, Jean-Pierre reiterated Biden’s longstanding commitment to the troops. She noted that Biden used to carry a card in his pocket to keep track of the number of service members wounded and killed in Iraq and Afghanistan, highlighting his personal connection to military sacrifices.
Biden’s performance in the debate, where he appeared hoarse and struggled at times, has led to calls for his replacement from some Democrats. A Biden aide later told Newsweek that the president was battling a cold during the debate, which may have affected his performance.
In the aftermath of the debate, the Biden campaign has been working to manage the fallout and reinforce the president’s dedication to the military. Jean-Pierre’s comments are part of this effort, emphasizing Biden’s deep care and concern for service members and their families.
The campaign is also leveraging the Supreme Court’s recent immunity ruling in their latest ad blitz, criticizing the decision and warning against Trump’s potential return to power. The ad portrays Biden as a protector of American values and democracy.
As the election season intensifies, Biden’s team is focused on addressing both his missteps and his accomplishments, while reinforcing his empathy and dedication to the American people, especially the troops. The White House aims to redirect the narrative, highlighting Biden’s personal commitment to the military and his ongoing efforts to keep them safe.
