In a recent speech by U.S. President Joe Biden to American troops stationed abroad, he made unusual remarks, including stating that he "sometimes forgets that he is president." Biden’s speech drew criticism for statements described as "strange," both from him and his wife, Jill.
During a speech to American military personnel in Mildenhall, England, the First Lady opened by saying, "You can sit down. I don’t want you to remain standing," and then turned to her husband saying, "Pay attention, Joe!" According to U.S. media, the phrase "Pay attention, Joe" led to criticism for Jill Biden on social media, with some commentators expressing discomfort at her "ordering" the president, even if in a joking manner. However, others argued that the First Lady's comment should not be taken out of context, highlighting that she was joking and did not intend any disrespect towards the U.S. president.
Afterward, Biden took the stage to deliver his speech and forgot to tell the Air Force personnel to "make themselves comfortable." When he remembered two minutes later, he offered a strange explanation for his forgetfulness, saying, "I still forget that I am president," which elicited laughter from the audience.
Biden arrived in Britain on Wednesday to begin an 8-day European tour, his first since taking office in January. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed President Biden on Thursday at the seaside resort of Carbis Bay in England. Johnson said, "Everyone was extremely happy" to see Biden at the coastal resort in southwestern England, while the U.S. president congratulated the prime minister on his recent marriage before their closed-door discussions began.
