Staff Reports
President Joe Biden appears to have taken the term “executive vacation” to a whole new level by spending more time soaking up rays than dealing with the nation’s pressing issues. As he kicks back on the beach in Rehoboth, Delaware, questions are swirling about who, if anyone, is actually running the country while he works diligently on his tan. His latest getaway, part of an ongoing two-week holiday saga, has raised eyebrows among conservatives and concerned citizens alike.
The president began this leisurely retreat right after delivering a speech at the Democratic National Convention, where he anointed Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s leading contender for the 2024 presidential race. Following the political pageantry, it seems Biden decided that a week in sunny California and subsequent sunbathing on Delaware’s shores would suit him far better than addressing the myriad crises affecting the nation. The critics aren’t holding back, pointing out that with each passing day on the beach, the countdown to a vacation-stuffed presidency continues—532 days of relaxation translating to a jaw-dropping 40% of his time in office.
Biden seen soaking up the sun in ongoing two-week vacation: ‘Who’s running the country?’ https://t.co/aiD3d4zQgg
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) September 1, 2024
Social media has been buzzing with reactions to Biden’s prolonged absence from the Oval Office. Conservative commentator Bill Mitchell pointed out the absurdity of the situation, highlighting that during his extensive beach vacation, vital issues are going unchecked. With a country in turmoil—from economic woes to international conflict—one can’t help but wonder who is actually steering the ship while the commander-in-chief might as well be auditioning for the role of a surfer.
To add insult to injury, Biden took a break from his tanning exploits to post a statement mourning the death of Hamas hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin. However, the timing of his heartfelt message amidst a sun-soaked vacation left many scratching their heads. Critics on social media couldn’t resist pointing out that it’s a bit hard to take the president’s sincerity seriously while he sits by the beach sipping a drink, raising the question of whether Biden is genuinely engaged or merely fulfilling his photo-op duties.
Meanwhile, in Trump's territory, former President Donald Trump isn’t wasting any time on relaxation. He’s been actively rallying support across battleground states while Biden is preoccupied with beach volleyball. Trump’s relentless engagement has not only garnered him the endorsement of notable figures but has also sent a strong message about leadership, especially in light of Biden and Harris’s handling of recent crises—namely the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan. Trump’s remarks about the current administration’s incompetence reflect a growing frustration among many who see Biden’s beach escapade as evidence of a government that is disconnected from the harsh realities facing American citizens.
As Biden continues splashing in the surf, it’s clear that the contrast between his presidential approach and Trump’s campaigning could define the future. Whether Americans will favor fun in the sun or action on the ground remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the beach will likely not be the backdrop of Biden’s 2024 campaign strategy.
