President Joe Biden’s comments about “garbage” Donald Trump supporters have ignited a political firestorm. Following a rally in Madison Square Garden where comedian Tony Hinchcliffe referred to Puerto Rico as an “island of garbage,” Biden responded Tuesday by saying that “the only garbage I see floating out there is his supporters” – swiftly triggering backlash from Republican leaders.
To clarify, the White House released a transcript stating that Biden was specifically addressing Hinchcliffe’s words rather than condemning all Trump supporters. “His demonization of Latinos is unconscionable and un-American,” the transcript noted. But the clarification did little to quell the outrage, with Republicans comparing Biden’s comments to Hillary Clinton’s infamous “basket of deplorables” remark from 2016.
Trump’s camp quickly seized upon the opportunity, accusing Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris of waging a “campaign of hate.” “You can’t lead America if you don’t love the American people,” Trump stated while defending the Madison Square Garden rally as a “love fest.” He acknowledged that some comments made at the event were inappropriate but stopped short of apologizing for Hinchcliffe’s joke, further angering Puerto Rican advocates.
In Pennsylvania, where there is a significant Puerto Rican population, residents expressed disappointment with Biden’s remarks. Although Puerto Rico itself does not participate in presidential elections, its diaspora in the U.S. holds considerable voting power. Many community members asserted that they would not overlook the derogatory comment made at the rally, highlighting the importance of respect and representation.
Biden later addressed the backlash during a video call with the non-profit organization Voto Latino. He clarified that his comments were directed at the “hateful rhetoric” displayed at the Trump rally, not at all Trump supporters. “The comments made at that event don’t reflect the values of the nation,” he said.
As tensions mounted, Biden’s remarks threatened to overshadow a rally held by Harris in Washington, D.C. While campaigning for the Democratic nomination, Harris called for unity, stating, “Unlike Donald Trump, I don’t believe people who disagree with me are the enemy.”
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also emphasized the Democratic campaign’s focus on inclusion. “The president clarified his remarks,” he said, reiterating the party’s commitment to welcoming all voices in the political conversation.
