In a recent interview aired on Tuesday, President Joe Biden identified his predecessor, Donald Trump, as the most significant threat to American democracy. The President referenced Trump’s actions during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, and his subsequent calls for the release of those involved in the attack.
Biden’s Blunt Response
When questioned about the primary threat to freedom and democracy domestically, Biden responded unequivocally: “Donald Trump.” He criticized Trump’s rhetoric, suggesting that he would “eviscerate the Constitution” and become a “dictator on day one.”
Biden expressed disbelief at the idea of Trump watching the Capitol attack unfold for hours from the Oval Office, referring to the perpetrators as “political heroes” and “patriots.” He also criticized Trump’s promise to release those involved in the attack if reelected, arguing they are being held illegally.
Trump’s Attitude Towards Minority Populations
Biden further criticized Trump’s comments about minority populations, particularly Hispanics. He expressed his inability to recall a time in his life or history when a figure of such stature displayed this kind of attitude.
Biden’s Re-election Campaign
The interview, which was taped at the White House last week, is set to air on the Spanish-language network Univision on Tuesday evening. Biden has made issues of democracy a cornerstone of his re-election campaign, drawing a stark contrast with Trump.
Both Biden and Trump have used the events of January 6 to appeal to voters. Trump has begun his rallies with a recording of January 6 prisoners singing the national anthem, referring to the rioters as “people who love our country” and “hostages unfairly imprisoned for long periods of time.”
Trump’s Legal Troubles
Trump has been indicted on felony charges for attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election ahead of the January 6 riot, to which he has pleaded not guilty. Biden has expressed outrage that Trump reportedly watched the January 6 attack on television from the dining room off the Oval Office, ignoring aides’ pleas to denounce the violence.
Biden has also issued warnings about Trump’s rhetoric leading up to this year’s election, including comments last month about a “bloodbath” should Biden win a second term. “Trump says if he loses again in November there will be a bloodbath. What the hell’s wrong with this guy?” Biden asked at a fundraiser in late March.
This story has been updated with additional reporting.