Biden Makes Big Stop In Philly For Speech
President Biden, seeking to solidify support from Black voters, made a powerful appearance in Philadelphia on Wednesday. Speaking at Girard College, a predominantly Black boarding school, Biden, accompanied by Vice President Kamala Harris, expressed gratitude to Black voters for their crucial role in securing his victory in the 2020 presidential election.
During his speech, Biden highlighted key achievements of his administration aimed at improving the lives of Black Americans. He emphasized the elimination of lead pipes to ensure safer drinking water, the removal of pollution in fenceline communities, the provision of affordable high-speed internet, and the protection of the Affordable Care Act. "A promise made, and a promise kept," he declared, underscoring his commitment to these initiatives.
However, Biden did not shy away from addressing his opponent, former President Donald Trump. He accused Trump of calling the January 6 rioters patriots and expressing a desire to pardon them. Biden posed a provocative question to the crowd, asking what Trump would have done if Black Americans had stormed the Capitol. "I don’t think he’d be talking about pardons," Biden asserted. He further criticized Trump, stating, "This is the same guy who wanted to tear gas you as you peacefully protested George Floyd’s murder."
Biden's handlers crank the music after his incoherent remarks to drown out reporters' questions pic.twitter.com/KaQMMPM83h
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In May 2020, Philadelphia was one of many cities where protests erupted following the murder of George Floyd. Initially peaceful, these demonstrations against police brutality escalated into violence. The unrest saw the defacing of the iconic statue of former Philadelphia Mayor Frank Rizzo, looting and vandalism of storefronts along Chestnut and Walnut streets, and the setting ablaze of police vehicles and a Starbucks near City Hall.
Police, equipped in riot gear, confronted the crowd, which reportedly threw projectiles and attempted to breach the police line using a fence. The confrontation resulted in injuries to over a dozen police officers and led to the imposition of a mandatory curfew.
The White House did not immediately respond to requests for clarification regarding Biden's remarks about the protests being peaceful. Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign also did not provide an immediate response to Biden's comments.
The spring and summer of 2020 were marked by nationwide protests and riots following the death of George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man who died while in police custody in Minneapolis. These events sparked a renewed and intense focus on issues of racial injustice and police reform across the United States.
In his address, Biden sought to remind voters of these pivotal moments and his administration's efforts to address systemic issues impacting Black communities. His speech aimed to reaffirm his commitment to the promises made during his campaign and to rally support as he prepares for the upcoming presidential election.