President Joe Biden found himself embroiled in controversy once more when a reporter spotted a press conference cheat sheet in his possession.
This time, the document included the names of the journalists he was meant to call on and their questions. The incident occurred during a joint press conference with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in Washington, DC.
Photos obtained by the New York Post reveal Biden's "Reporter Q&A" cheat sheet, which instructed him on whom to call first. A hand-written note above Los Angeles Times reporter Courtney Subramanian's name and picture told Biden she would ask "Question #1."
The text of Subramanian's first question, "How are YOU squaring YOUR domestic priorities like reshoring semiconductors manufacturing with alliance-based foreign policy?" was clearly visible under the heading "Foreign Policy / Semiconductor Manufacturing."
As the press conference began, Biden called on Subramanian first. Despite having written instructions on pronouncing her last name, he referred to her as Courtney. While the phrasing of her question differed from that on the note card, the subject area remained the same.
Images of Biden's cheat sheet circulated on social media, drawing widespread criticism. One user commented, "This is so humiliating." At the same time, another added, "That's just embarrassing for Biden and for the reporters, but mostly it's embarrassing for America that this doofus is our president."
This is not the first instance of Biden being caught with a cheat sheet. In both 2021 and 2022, he was seen with a notecard displaying journalists' names and faces and instructions on how and when to sit down.
British actor and comedian Russell Brand criticized Biden for needing assistance with basic human movements, stating, "If you have to give someone instructions for how to conduct basic protocols, it's probably not the best time of their life for them to run a country."
The latest episode has raised questions about President Biden's ability to conduct press conferences without relying on aides and pre-written materials. Critics argue that using such cheat sheets reflects poorly on the United States and undermines the President's credibility.
The controversy comes when Biden's administration faces mounting domestic and international challenges, further underscoring the need for strong and effective leadership.
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