Former Biden administration official Anthony Coley called out ex-President Joe Biden amid his recent interviews, saying it’s “not helpful” to the Democratic Party in the aftermath of the 2024 presidential election loss.
Newsweek reached out to Biden’s office via online form for comment Friday night.
Why It Matters
Following former Vice President Kamala Harris‘ election loss in November and President Donald Trump‘s inauguration in January, both Harris and Biden have kept a somewhat low political profile.
Democrats have faced growing turmoil and scrutiny following the election loss, as the party struggles with delivering a cohesive message and picking a clear leader who resonates with voters. After the 2024 election, Republicans gained control of the White House, Senate and Congress.
In early polls surveying Americans on potential 2028 candidates, Harris has been a notable contender along with New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
What To Know
Biden sat down for ABC’s The View in his first live televised interview since leaving office. During the appearance, he said he ultimately took responsibility for Trump winning the election.
“I was in charge, and he won. So, you know, I take responsibility,” Biden said in part.
He attended the interview alongside his wife, former first lady Jill Biden. The former president reiterated his belief that he would have been able to defeat Trump again on Election Day.
Biden also had an interview with BBC News earlier this week.
Reacting to the former president’s remarks, Coley told The Hill that “Elections are about the future. Every time Joe Biden emerges, we fight an old war.”
Coley led public affairs under Merrick Garland, former attorney general under Biden. He added that “Every interview he does provides a contrast to Trump that’s just not helpful for the Democratic brand, which needs trusted messengers and fighters who can reach independents and moderates and inspire the base. Joe Biden ain’t that.”
He continued by wondering how Biden’s interviews are actually helping his party. Coley adds that Democratic leaders “are just ready to turn the page. I just don’t think he [Biden] understands how wide and deep this sentiment is.”
Biden was also asked about his cognitive abilities on The View, saying in part that the people accusing him of having declined mental acuity “are wrong.”
What People Are Saying
Former George W. Bush adviser Scott Jennings on X, formerly Twitter, this week: “Between what we saw of Biden today on The View & my understanding of what’s about to drop in the Tapper/Thompson book, I don’t think Dems have fully internalized the nuclear bomb that’s about to hit their party.”
Republican Representative Wesley Hunt of Texas posted to X on Friday: “ICYMI: Biden fumbles a softball on The View about his mental decline—rambles about COVID and the Civil War. Jill jumps in to save him… again. Memo to the Bidens: this PR tour is more ‘Weekend at Bernie’s’ than West Wing. Give it a rest.”
Jill Biden on The View, in part: “Joe worked really hard. I think he was a great president. … If you look at things today, give me Joe Biden anytime.”
What Happens Next
Biden has hired veteran communications expert and former Biden official Chris Meagher, a move that potentially indicates more media appearances may be on the horizon.