Former President Joe Biden delivered pointed remarks in Chicago Thursday, expressing alarm over what he described as attacks on the rule of law and threats to civil rights under President Donald Trump’s administration. Speaking to a crowd of nearly 1,100 members of the predominantly Black National Bar Association, Biden did not mention Trump by name, but his target was clear.
What Happened
In a speech lasting about 20 minutes, Biden painted a grim picture of the current state of the nation, warning that “these are dark days.” His remarks were a stark critique of the Trump administration, accusing it of undermining basic freedoms, eroding established legal precedents, and “erasing” truth. Biden emphasized that the actions taken during the Trump years have reversed much of the progress made during his own presidency.
He specifically called out the treatment of immigrants, the administration’s attacks on law firms and media companies, and its broader disregard for fairness and justice. “We are, in my view, at such a moment in American history,” Biden said, citing what he viewed as the administration’s deliberate efforts to undo the gains of the past.
Key Points of the Speech
Biden highlighted his administration’s efforts, including the appointment of more Black women to the bench than any previous president and his decision to make Kamala Harris the first female and Black vice president. He also reminded the audience of his commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and his support for civil rights.
Biden reflected on his early career, including his time as a public defender after the 1968 riots and his experiences growing up in Wilmington, Delaware, alongside the Black community. He invoked the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and praised former President Lyndon Johnson for signing the Civil Rights Act.
The speech was also filled with personal anecdotes, drawing a connection between Biden’s early years and the current political climate. He made it clear that America’s fight for equality and justice is far from over, declaring, “There’s been nothing in the course of our country’s history that we haven’t been able to accomplish.”
White House Response
In response, a White House spokesperson, Harrison Fields, sharply criticized Biden’s comments, accusing him of hypocrisy and claiming that the former president’s tenure was marked by mismanagement. Fields dismissed Biden’s criticism, stating that his administration was responsible for undermining the Constitution and failing to address pressing issues like border security.
The Takeaway
Biden’s speech was a mix of political posturing, personal reflection, and a call to action, reminding the audience of the nation’s potential and resilience in times of crisis. Despite the sharp criticism aimed at his successor, Biden’s overarching message was one of hope and the importance of continuing the fight for justice in America.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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