Biden’s Rambling Zoom Call with Dozens of Democrats, Described as ‘Worse Than the Debate’

A recent Zoom call involving President Joe Biden has sparked controversy and criticism, with participants expressing disappointment over his communication and demeanour. According to one attendee, who spoke on anonymity, Biden’s responses were described as rambling and often unfinished.

President Biden held a “rambling” Zoom call with dozens of moderate Democrats that was “even worse than the debate”, reports say. AP

“He’d start an answer, then lose his train of thought, and would just say ‘whatever’,” the source remarked, adding, “I lost a ton of respect for him.”

Another participant, identified as a member of Congress, echoed these sentiments, noting Biden’s apparent struggle to articulate a clear campaign strategy and address concerns effectively. They remarked, “The president was rambling, dismissive of concerns, unable or unprepared to present a campaign strategy.”

The Zoom call took a dramatic turn when news broke of an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. According to a source familiar with the situation, this incident diverted attention away from potential leaks and criticisms among Democratic attendees. “Had the assassination attempt not occurred an hour later, I imagine 50 people on that Zoom were ready to come out publicly against him,” the member of Congress stated.

The 81-year-old president repeatedly lost his train of thought on the call and was dismissive of the Democrats’ concerns about his 2024 re-election campaign, according to reports. AFP via Getty Images

During the contentious call, sources recalled a heated exchange concerning national security between Biden and Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.). Biden reportedly challenged Crow’s perspective, asserting his credentials and experience in foreign policy. “First of all, I think you’re dead wrong on national security,” Biden asserted, citing recent diplomatic engagements and his role in NATO. He also drew attention to his family’s military service, saying, “Tell me who did something you’ve never done with your Bronze Star like my son.”

The Zoom meeting abruptly concluded at approximately 5 p.m., with Biden informing participants that he needed to attend church, according to multiple sources familiar with the call.

Responding to criticisms of Biden’s performance, a campaign official defended the president, emphasizing recent engagements with Democratic leaders and ongoing efforts to solicit feedback. “Just in the past week, the president has met with Democratic leaders in both chambers and numerous congressional groups to solicit their feedback and answer their questions,” the official stated. They further noted that discussions with congressional offices remain candid and robust.

Critics say Biden performed severely in last month’s presidential debate. REUTERS

The incident underscores President Biden’s challenges as he navigates domestic and international issues amid scrutiny from within his own party. The Biden administration remains committed to engaging with lawmakers and addressing concerns raised by congressional members despite the fallout from the controversial Zoom call.