President Biden's Interactions with Children Draw Scrutiny

Created: JANUARY 15, 2025

Recent events have highlighted President Biden's sometimes awkward interactions with children. A video from his departure from Helsinki, Finland, shows him nibbling on the shoulder of a young girl, who appeared startled by the gesture. This incident follows other instances where Biden's behavior with children has drawn criticism, including advising a young girl to postpone serious relationships until age 30 and making a cryptic remark about a past friendship with a 12-year-old girl.

Joe Biden in Finland with a young girl

President Joe Biden interacts with a child while greeting embassy staff and families at Helsinki-Vantaan International Airport. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

In October, Biden faced social media backlash for advising a young woman against serious relationships before 30. During a separate speech, he made a confusing comment about a friendship he had with a 12-year-old when he was 30, leaving many disturbed. In 2021, Biden's comment about a young girl looking "19 with her legs crossed" during a speech to military families also drew criticism.

President Joe Biden offers dating advice to a girl

President Biden advises a young girl about relationships. (Sky News Australia)

Years earlier, Biden shared an unusual anecdote about children rubbing his leg hair while he worked as a lifeguard. Another widely-circulated video from 2015 shows Biden whispering to Senator Chris Coons' daughter during a swearing-in ceremony, with the girl appearing uncomfortable. While Coons later defended Biden, these instances have contributed to ongoing discussions about the president's interactions with children.

President Joe Biden and Senator Coons' daughter

Then-Vice President Joe Biden interacts with Senator Chris Coons' daughter. (Screenshot/C-SPAN2)

Comments(0)

Top Comments

Comment Form