Former US President Joe Biden launched a scathing critique of his successor Donald Trump during an event in Nebraska, accusing him of taking “a wrecking ball and using it on democracy.” Biden referenced the demolition of the White House East Wing to construct a golden ballroom, calling it “the perfect symbol of his presidency.”
“Demolishing democracy”
“I knew Trump would take a wrecking ball to the country, but I had no idea—I have to admit—that there would be a literal wrecking ball,” Biden said, referring to Trump’s demolition of the White House East Wing to build a ballroom of approximately 90,000 square feet. “Trump hasn’t just torn down the people’s house, but also the Constitution, the rule of law, and our democracy.”
Mockingly, Biden addressed the “golden age” that Trump invokes, saying: “The only gold is what he hung above his fireplace.” He also accused Trump of prioritizing the interests of the wealthy over American citizens, emphasizing: “You work for us, not just for the billionaires and millionaires, Mr. President. We don’t work for you,” he said emphatically, adding: “I am angry.”
At times, Biden addressed Trump directly: “You behave in a way that, frankly, embarrasses us as a nation,” he stated characteristically.
Personal battle and public health
The former president also spoke about his own battle with prostate cancer and connected his experience to the importance of public health, condemning healthcare spending cuts by Trump and Republicans.
The speech took place amid the longest government shutdown in US history, with the impasse concerning Affordable Care Act subsidies. Biden also celebrated the Democrats’ victory in recent elections, saying: “The Democratic Party is back!”
In closing, he emphasized the importance of democracy and citizen participation: “Democracy is not guaranteed. No one—not even the president—can destroy it, if we stand united and fight for it.”
