Joe Biden Gives First Speech Since Leaving Office at a Chicago Conference, Sparking Buzz over His Appearance

Biden’s first public speech since leaving office drew attention not only for its content but also for the attention his appearance received online.

Earlier in the day, the 36th White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt took a shot at Biden, sparking backlash and stirring debate over political decorum.

“He will always protect this program. He campaigned on it, he protected it in his first term, and he’s back again to continue defending it,” concluded Leavitt, who is notably the youngest White House press secretary in history.

The opening portion of Leavitt’s statement—widely interpreted as a pointed jab at Biden’s age and energy—sparked significant backlash across social media platforms. Many users criticized her tone, calling it disrespectful and unprofessional.

On Facebook, one user commented, “Very rude. She’s talking about a former U.S. President. He deserves at least some respect!”

Another commented, “Ok, so, although I do usually like her blunt nature, however, this was immature and disrespectful. I did not care for President Biden, but he was still our President, and he is still a person [sic].”

One netizen said, “Inappropriate.” Another commenter added, “So juvenile, disrespectful, and classless.” One more person commented, “That is just so wrong to say, didn’t need! But I am not surprised from you [sic]!”

On Instagram, reactions were equally strong. One person wrote, “She does a great job, but don’t think her comments are appropriate. Should be above that [sic].”

Another added, “Karoline, you crossed the line!” One netizen remarked, “So unnecessary for a person in her position to speak like this.”

Additional policy changes have have resulted in tighter identity-verification requirements and a data-sharing initiative involving the Department of Government Efficiency, led by adviser Elon Musk.

Musk, who has described Social Security as “the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time,” has drawn attention to the administration’s efforts to streamline operations.

However, some of these actions have been met with legal challenges and growing public concern. A lawsuit was filed after the SSA granted Musk’s department access to individuals’ Social Security data.

Meanwhile, recipients have reported issues ranging from increased wait times on SSA’s helpline to incorrect notifications about benefit status.

While the agency attributed some issues to system errors, concerns remain, especially among Supplemental Security Income recipients, including disabled individuals and low-income households.

“And my eternal thanks to you, the American people. After 50 years of public service, I give you my word, I still believe in the idea for which this nation stands, a nation where the strengths of our institutions and the character of our people matter and must endure,” he said.

As he concluded his term, he stated, “You know, it will take time to feel the full impact of all we’ve done together. But the seeds are planted, and they’ll grow and they’ll bloom for decades to come.”

Karoline Leavitt’s reaction to Joe Biden’s return to the public stage sparked strong public responses and underscored the political tensions surrounding Social Security.