A former White House official has criticized the communications team's narrative, accusing them of living in an "alternate universe" after praising President Biden's performance at a NATO press conference. Michael LaRosa, who served as first lady Jill Biden's press secretary, highlighted the disconnect between the White House's portrayal and the broader reality experienced by Democrats.
Michael LaRosa, a former White House official, has slammed the communications team for failing to address critical issues and painting an unrealistic picture of President Biden's performance. In a recent social media post, LaRosa expressed frustration over the senior official's praise for Biden's performance at a NATO press conference, stating that it represented an "alternate universe" for most Democrats.
LaRosa pointed to the growing divide within the Democratic Party, with some members criticizing Biden's age and presentation while others defend his performance. He emphasized that the White House's rhetoric often diverges from the challenges facing Democrats outside the bubble.
White House Accused of "Bubble Wrapping" Biden, Faces Criticism from Former Official
While acknowledging Biden's policy expertise, LaRosa expressed concern that some around the President may be inadvertently lowering the bar for him. He stressed the importance of external voices who can provide a more objective perspective.
LaRosa's criticism was met with mixed reactions. Some conservatives criticized the White House's handling of Biden's communication, while several Democrats defended his performance. Longtime GOP strategist Mike Biundo suggested that Biden's press conference reinforced concerns about his weakness and failure.
White House Accused of "Bubble Wrapping" Biden, Faces Criticism from Former Official
Republican communicator Sarah Matthews criticized the White House's Senior Deputy Press Secretary, Andrew Bates, for saying that Biden "just [is] that f---ing good" in reference to foreign affairs. She argued that such language was inappropriate for an official White House account.
Bates's post also sparked criticism from conservatives on social media, who pointed to Biden's recent gaffes as evidence of his declining performance. Former Jill Biden spox Michael Larosa (Left) said Andrew Bates' (Right) "whole purpose is to drink the kool-aid surrounding the boss," referring to President Biden. (Getty Images)
White House Accused of "Bubble Wrapping" Biden, Faces Criticism from Former Official
In contrast, former Obama administration official Joel Rubin praised Biden's performance, calling it a "master class" in connecting foreign and domestic policy. Kate Bedingfield, a former Biden communications director, also defended his performance as a "strong" showing.
Despite the White House's attempts to portray Biden as sharp and engaged, many Democrats continue to express concerns about his age and stamina. Some elected officials within the party have called for Biden to drop out of the race.
White House Accused of "Bubble Wrapping" Biden, Faces Criticism from Former Official
The White House has been criticized for its optimistic portrayal of Biden's performance, which critics argue is disconnected from the broader reality experienced by Democrats. The division within the party highlights the challenges facing Biden's re-election campaign.
