Biden’s South Carolina Rally: A Sharp Critique of Trump and a Look Ahead

Biden stepped onto the stage in Columbia, South Carolina, addressing a crowd that had once helped him win the 2020 primary. He used the occasion to point out Trump’s recent speech, calling it long and asking, “Is he still talking?” The comment was a gentle jab at the president’s record speech.

He then said Trump is “obsessed” with Barack Obama and is trying to block voting for the midterms, adding that something was “wrong” with him. Biden criticized Trump for ignoring the deaths of two ICE workers in Minnesota, saying the president did not offer comfort to their families or mention them.

The former leader highlighted South Carolina’s importance, noting it chose the first Democrat to win the presidency and that it still has the power to pick future presidents. He reminded listeners of his 2020 win in a state with many Black voters, which helped him secure the nomination.

Biden also praised his own record: he lowered insulin prices, created jobs, and cut crime. He contrasted this with Trump’s record of harming the country’s reputation abroad. Immigration was a key topic; Biden said border crossings had fallen when he left office compared to when he entered, while Trump’s policies were blamed for higher border activity.

He concluded that the public is tired of Trump’s approach to immigration and that Biden’s own policies, though criticized by some in his party, have led to fewer border crossings. The speech was a mix of criticism and reassurance for future elections.