Jill Biden trolled as she arrives in giant panda costume for 'Hallo-Read' Halloween bash at White House

WASHINGTON, DC: This Halloween was one for the history books at the White House as President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden celebrated their final spooky season in office.

With candy, costumes, and a “Hallo-Read” theme to get kids excited about reading, it was clear the Bidens were pulling out all the stops. But let’s just say not everyone was feeling the panda love.

Jill Biden’s panda costume

Jill Biden’s choice of costume definitely made a splash. Dressed head-to-toe as a giant panda, the First Lady embraced the Halloween spirit with a cute gimmick that of course had some sentimental value too.

Earlier this year, she’d been part of the National Zoo’s announcement that pandas would be making a return to Washington, and this costume was her way of saying a big “Welcome Back” to these beloved black-and-white bears.

The White House said in a statement, “On Wednesday, October 30th, the President and First Lady are hosting a Halloween event that will welcome local students and military-connected children to the White House for trick-or-treating. A teacher for 40 years, including years spent as a reading specialist, First Lady Jill Biden created this year’s theme 'Hallo-READ!' with the White House’s festive decor featuring famous literary tales and spooky storytime."

"Dr. Biden’s theme encourages families and children to once again grab a flashlight, pick out their favorite Halloween book, and relish in the spooktacular thrill of reading together," it continued.

“Children will trick-or-treat along the South Lawn of the White House up to the South Portico to receive both candy and books from the President and First Lady, as well as other White House friends and neighbors,” the statement added.

Social media backlash against Jill Biden

Jill Biden's costume was a hit among the youngest trick-or-treaters who were probably more excited to see a giant panda than another politician in a suit.

However, critics on social media saw the fluffy ensemble as fair game, posting snarky comments from across the aisle.

"Well, this will be her very last Halloween in the White House. It took her 4 years to run through all the drapes, upholstery, and tablecloths, and Panda was all that was left to wear," one posted on X.

"Looks better than her typical tablecloth outfit," another quipped.

"Best she has EVER looked as First Lady in this panda suit!" a third chimed in.

"I just can't imagine Bess Truman or Elenore Roosevelt doing this kind of China worshiping s**t," read a comment.

"Who wears a Panda outfit for Halloween[?] Did Hillary take the Witch costume?" someone else joked.

"That’s not her! She hit the road as soon as Joe got booted out!" another alleged.

Jill Biden hosts farewell-themed 'Hallo-Read' Halloween bash at White House

Jill Biden, a teacher with 40 years under her belt, dubbed this year’s theme “Hallo-Read” to inspire kids to get cozy with a good book. She even read a story to kids on the lawn earlier in the day, sharing a spooky pumpkin tale with the crowd of costumed kiddos.

The event saw up to 8,000 guests, including local students and kids connected to the military. There were decorations galore — with a big “Hallow-Read at the White House” sign, a huge orange moon lighting up the South Portico, and cardboard cutouts of Willow, the Biden family cat. Giant pumpkins flanked the entrance.

And it wasn’t just the Bidens getting in on the fun. High-profile administration officials like Secretary of State Antony Blinken and OMB director Shalanda Young were there, bringing their kids along to experience one last White House Halloween with the first family. Even White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre joined in.

President Biden, who stayed in his classic suit and tie (no costumes here!), got into the Halloween spirit by personally handing out treats. Kids’ trick-or-treat bags got filled with boxes of White House Hershey’s Kisses chocolates from the man himself.

As their final term winds down, this Halloween bash felt more like a farewell party than just a holiday celebration. Following Biden's reelection announcement withdrawal in July, the event signaled the start of the last few months for the first family at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

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