On Wednesday, President Joe Biden received the United Auto Workers’ (UAW) esteemed political endorsement at their annual conference in Washington, DC. Following the event, he engaged in a backstage dialogue with a group of union members advocating for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell, who was present during the exchange, described the conversation as “respectful” and “cordial.” The President also took the opportunity to shake hands and pose for photos with the group, according to an anonymous source.
Before the UAW conference, the White House had been informed that pro-ceasefire protesters were expected to be in attendance. The administration responded by expressing the President’s willingness to engage with these individuals.
During Biden’s address to the union members, his speech was interrupted by protesters, including one who unfurled a Palestinian flag and called for a humanitarian ceasefire. Following the interruption, the President listened attentively to the concerns of union members regarding the Gaza situation before returning to the White House.
Despite his firm support for Israel in its campaign against Hamas, Biden is said to be acutely aware of the fervor the conflict has stirred, particularly among young progressives. Protests have emerged during private fundraisers, at a Christmas tree lighting, outside the White House, and even near his private residence in Delaware.
Advisers have indicated that the President and his team are prepared for future interruptions during his speeches as the Gaza conflict continues. While these protests can sometimes overshadow the President’s message, they are seen as a part of public life. Biden is also open to meeting with critics of his policies, according to White House officials.
At previous speeches, Biden has attempted to articulate his position to the protesters: “I understand the passion and I’ve been quietly working with the Israeli government to reduce – significantly get out of Gaza,” he said as protesters were escorted out.
Despite the interruptions, Biden has not publicly asked the protesters to quiet down or leave the venue – a contrast to his predecessor that his team is keen to emphasize. Event volunteers and staff have also not attempted to bar people from attending, even if they suspect they will disrupt the President’s speech.
Since the onset of the Gaza war following the October 7 Hamas terror attacks, the administration has sought to engage Arab and Muslim American leaders in discussions about the conflict. However, the White House has not publicly disclosed any additional meetings between Biden and activists calling for a ceasefire.
“I can’t speak to a direct conversation that he’s had, but he hears from Americans all the time about their different views that they have,” said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre this week. “That is something that the President is very aware of.”