A recent remark from the 36th White House press secretary about the former president’s return to the spotlight has sparked backlash and stirred debate over political decorum. Karoline Leavitt made headlines with her blunt response to former President Joe Biden’s first public address since leaving office. His speech, delivered on April 15, 2025, focused on Social Security.
In her statement, Leavitt remarked, “My first reaction when seeing former President Biden was speaking tonight was, I’m shocked that he is speaking at nighttime. I thought his bedtime was much earlier than his speech tonight.”
ad of Joe Biden’s April 15 speech in Chicago. She emphasized Trump’s long-standing support for the program, stating he “will always protect it.”
However, the first part of Leavitt’s statement, which included a jab at Biden’s age and energy, drew criticism on social media. Many called her comments disrespectful and unprofessional, with users on Facebook and Instagram urging her to show more respect.
Biden, who has made few public appearances since leaving office, spoke at the national conference of the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD), calling out Trump’s policies affecting the Social Security Administration (SSA). His speech came amid rising concerns over workforce cuts, stricter ID verification, and controversial data-sharing measures under Trump’s new term, including a role for adviser Elon Musk.
Musk, who once called Social Security a “Ponzi scheme,” has led efforts to streamline SSA operations, but these have sparked legal challenges and complaints from beneficiaries.
Attorney Jason Turkish, who represents thousands of disability clients, noted growing anxiety about the program’s stability, though he welcomed some SSA efforts to fix recent issues.
Biden’s return follows his January farewell address, where he reflected on his public service and urged Americans to uphold democratic values. His recent appearance, along with Leavitt’s remarks, has reignited debate over the future of Social Security and the direction of national leadership.