President Biden called on the press to focus on the stakes of the current political climate and move past distractions during the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday.
President Biden appealed to the media to recognize the gravity of the current political situation and move beyond the sensationalism that has dominated recent coverage. Speaking at the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday, Biden emphasized the need for credible information in an era of disinformation.
"I'm sincerely not asking you to take sides, but asking you to rise up to the seriousness of the moment," Biden told the press.
The president stressed that the stakes of the current political climate are extremely high and that every individual, including journalists, has a role to play in ensuring the endurance of democracy. He highlighted the importance of accurate and trustworthy information, particularly in an age where disinformation is prevalent.
"In the age of disinformation, credible information that people can trust is more important than ever," he said.
Biden also acknowledged the presence of anti-Israel protesters outside the event, who chanted slogans against attendees. He then proceeded to take some jabs at former President Trump, referring to his age and comparing him to a young child.
"Yes, age is an issue, and I'm a grown man running against a 6-year-old," Biden said.
Comedian Colin Jost, who hosted the dinner, also made several humorous remarks about Biden, Trump, and other Republican politicians. He joked about his solidarity with the president in losing Black support and referenced the cocaine incident at the White House during the State of the Union address.
"I love Washington. Last time I was here I left my cocaine at the White House. Luckily, President Biden was able to make good use of it at his State of the Union," Jost said.
Biden concluded his speech by calling on Russian President Vladimir Putin to release Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who has been detained in Russia since March 2023.
"Putin should release Evan," he said. "We are doing everything we can."
The president's message to the press underscores the importance of responsible journalism and the need to focus on the pressing issues facing the nation, rather than sensationalist distractions.
