Online uproar followed President Joe Biden’s explanation for not visiting the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment site. East Palestine had experienced a significant train accident earlier in February, where the aftermath saw rail cars ignite, followed by a controlled burn by authorities. This event led to the release of chemicals like hydrogen chloride and phosgene into the atmosphere. While addressing the media in Live Oak, Florida, post Hurricane Idalia’s impact, Biden was questioned on this matter.
His justification was that his responsibilities required him to travel extensively worldwide. This response did not sit well with many online.
Tommy Piggott from the Republican National Committee Research Communications pointed out, “In the past six months, Biden has taken 75 days off, with 19 of those in August.”
Madison Gesiotto Gilbert, the RNC spokesperson, mentioned on the platform X (previously Twitter), “It seems you’re taking another vacation. Ohio residents are losing faith in your promise of ’empathy’ and your proposed visit to East Palestine.”
Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) commented sarcastically on Biden’s busy schedule with remarks about skiing and beach vacations. Another user, Radhee J. Shanker, added, “It’s just an hour’s flight to East Palestine from DC. Avoiding the residents of East Palestine seems a deliberate choice.”
Podcaster Stephen Miller made a jibe, alluding to Biden’s numerous vacations and decision-making.
It was noted that the Bidens had plans for the Labor Day weekend near Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. The president transitioned to the beach after his Florida visit. Apart from him, other family members, including Hunter Biden and first lady Jill Biden, had recently taken a trip to Lake Tahoe during Congress’s recess.
Moreover, Biden also took a trip to Maui in light of the wildfires there, despite initially being on vacation in Delaware when the fires began and delaying his visit by two weeks.
WATCH:
BIDEN: “I haven’t had the occasion to go to East Palestine. There’s a lot going on.” pic.twitter.com/YfQAt7DoYK
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) September 3, 2023
