Biden's "Eyes of Scranton" Remark Draws Criticism for Economic Ignorance
President Joe Biden’s latest defense of the economy has quickly come under fire on social media, as critics call out his failing policies and question his understanding of the current economic situation.
In a tweet on Monday, Biden’s official X account stated, "I don’t look at the economy through the eyes of Wall Street and Park Avenue. I look at it through the eyes of the people I grew up with in Scranton, Pennsylvania or Claymont, Delaware."
However, many on social media were quick to point out that Biden’s perspective does not seem to reflect the reality that many Americans are facing under his administration.
I don’t look at the economy through the eyes of Wall Street and Park Avenue.
I look at it through the eyes of the people I grew up with in Scranton, Pennsylvania or Claymont, Delaware.
— President Biden (@POTUS) November 13, 2023
Author Edward Dowd asked, "And what did the fine folks in Scranton tell you? Are they more bullish on the economy than Wall Street or less? Seriously what are we saying here? What does this mean?"
Meanwhile, podcast host Dr. Mark Young remarked, "He looks at the economy through the eyes of a Socialist with dementia," highlighting the growing concerns about Biden’s cognitive abilities as he continues to make key decisions for the country.
Others questioned the disparity between Biden’s rhetoric and the actual impact of his policies on everyday Americans. Former Republican congressional candidate Jack Lombardi wrote, "Well then you should go ahead and admit your economy sucks. Because the average American, my fellow non-elite American, is struggling under your failed policies. Your record number of EOs you bragged about signing caused this."
And what did the fine folks in Scranton tell you? Are they more bullish on the economy than Wall Street or less? Seriously what are we saying here? What does this mean? https://t.co/SNshHmVDfu
— Edward Dowd (@DowdEdward) November 13, 2023
One Twitter user even suggested that Biden’s statement was hypocritical, pointing out that the president and his family have benefited from their ties to Wall Street and Park Avenue. Immigration lawyer Matthew Kolken joked, "Especially when they pay you $50K p/m in rent, amirite?"
Actor Matthew Marsden questioned Biden’s record, writing, "You have literally been in congress most of your life. Now ask yourself is the country better since you took office? You look at the economy through the eyes of a corrupt old fool who has run the country into the ground."
These criticisms come on the heels of multiple recent polls showing declining approval ratings for Biden and his administration’s handling of the economy. A Fox News survey in October found that 62% of Americans disapproved of Biden’s handling of the economy, with only 37% approval.
"Nearly 70% of voters believe Biden's economic strategies have either harmed or not impacted the US economy."
Biggest concern is inflation at 82% of voters, with 65% cutting back on spending and half cutting back on daily necessities.https://t.co/opW57vOUUY
— Peter St Onge, Ph.D. (@profstonge) November 14, 2023
Similarly, a Marquette University poll found that former President Donald Trump had a 23- to 24-point lead with voters on issues such as handling inflation, the economy, and the border. This indicates a lack of confidence in Biden’s ability to create jobs and improve the economy, with Trump holding a 19-point lead in this area.
Clearly, Biden’s attempts to distance himself from the perception that he is out of touch with average Americans have fallen flat. As criticism continues to mount and poll numbers decline, it remains to be seen whether the Biden administration will take steps to address the country’s economic woes and restore confidence in its leadership.