Biden calls trustee ‘Obama’ in awkward onstage moment at portrait unveiling

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK: Former President Joe Biden drew attention on Tuesday, April 14 after making an awkward onstage remark during an event at Syracuse University, where he compared a Black trustee to Barack Obama.

Biden had returned to his alma mater to mark the unveiling of his portrait at the law school, delivering a reflective speech about his career and legacy. However, a brief comment during his address quickly sparked debate online.

Awkward onstage remark

While addressing attendees, Biden paused and joked about a member of the audience, later identified as Jeffrey M Scruggs, chairman of the university’s Board of Trustees.

"I always want to turn around to one guy and say.. 'Barack what are you doing?" Biden said as the audience laughed.

He then gestured for Scruggs to come on stage, adding, "I feel like he should be standing on the right and I should be standing on the left," prompting further laughter from the crowd.

The moment quickly circulated on social media, drawing mixed reactions. Critics pointed to the remark as another example of Biden’s tendency for gaffes, while others defended it as a lighthearted joke made in a familiar setting.

The event itself marked a significant moment for Biden, as his portrait was unveiled in the law school’s Law Library Reading Room, commemorating his time as a student and his decades-long public service career.

Reflective speech on legacy

Following the moment, Biden delivered a more personal address, reflecting on his journey from law school to national politics. He credited his family, classmates, and mentors for shaping his values and emphasized the role of law in advancing equality and democracy.

He also referenced his late son Beau Biden while discussing personal challenges and public service.

“As I began to build my presidential library and foundation, [I] hope to pass down to future generations a reverence for democracy," Biden said. "And my classmates and I learned here at Syracuse because whatever, whatever my legacy may be, I hope will be said that I never stopped striving for the cause of democracy."

In his closing remarks, Biden spoke about how he wishes to be remembered by future generations of law students.

"And I hope that long after I'm gone on future classes of Syracuse law students see the portrait and the reminder, not of me, but of the greatness and power of our democracy and of their obligation to do their part to preserve, protect, defend our Constitution," he continued.