Criticism directed at the Secret Service following the incident
President Joe Biden stumbled over a sandbag during a graduation ceremony at the US Air Force Academy, sparking criticism towards the Secret Service for not clearing the obstacle. Many Twitter users questioned why the agents had not removed the sandbag before the President’s appearance.
Biden appeared to be unharmed by the fall, with White House Communications Director Ben LaBolt tweeting, “He’s doing well.” The President himself addressed the incident with humor, telling reporters outside the White House, “I was sandbagged,” in reference to the obstacle.
Republicans Mock Biden’s Fall
While former President Donald Trump offered support for Biden following the stumble, other Republicans were less forgiving. The conservative tabloid New York Post published an opinion piece claiming Biden poses a significant danger to the Democrats and the country as a whole. Ben Shapiro, a prominent voice of the libertarian right, mocked the President’s age on Twitter. Congressman Matt Gaetz saw Biden’s stumble as a sign of the 80-year-old leader’s “decline.”
Donald Trump Wishes Joe Biden Well
Donald Trump expressed unexpected concern for Biden after his fall at the Air Force Academy. Speaking at a campaign event in Iowa, he said, “I hope he didn’t hurt himself.” Instead of mocking his rival’s health or age, Trump seemed to show understanding, stating, “The whole thing is crazy. You have to be careful, especially when it’s a slippery ramp.”
Trump’s comments recalled his own struggle to descend a reportedly “very slippery ramp” at the West Point Military Academy in 2020. The incident at the time sparked numerous discussions about Trump’s health.
Joe Biden’s Scare: President Trips Over Sandbag During Appearance
A sandbag caused a frightening moment for President Joe Biden during his appearance at the US Air Force Academy graduation ceremony in El Paso County, Colorado, on June 1. The 80-year-old stumbled over the sandbag as he was leaving the stage, according to reports. A bodyguard and an officer rushed to help the President back onto his feet, with Biden pointing accusingly at the sandbag.
Biden returned to his seat without any apparent injuries. The White House later confirmed that the President was “fine.” The Democratic politician had previously delivered a speech and presented diplomas at the graduation ceremony.
President Joe Biden Stumbles During Appearance in Colorado
As the oldest President in US history, Biden’s health is often questioned, especially given that he would be 86 years old by the end of a potential second term. Despite this, he is seeking re-election as the Democratic candidate in 2024. In February, Biden’s personal physician declared him to be in good health and fully capable of performing his presidential duties.
This is not the first time Biden has made headlines for a fall. Last year, he experienced a few minor accidents, including breaking his foot while playing with his dog Major in November 2020. In June 2022, he fell off his bicycle near his Delaware beach house. The President had stopped to talk with passersby and lost his balance while trying to remove his foot from the pedal strap.
