President Joe Biden found himself at the center of social media outrage after an unfortunate verbal gaffe while addressing reporters on Tuesday. As he outlined his upcoming travel plans, the 81-year-old president misspoke, saying he would be “doing 9/11,” a remark that quickly drew harsh criticism online.
Biden was preparing to leave the White House lawn when he mentioned his schedule, which included visiting New York City to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He explained his trip by saying, “I’m going up to my granddaughter’s birthday in New York. Then we’re going to watch the debate, and tomorrow I’m doing 9/11,” leading to widespread confusion and backlash. While the president was clearly referring to his participation in remembrance ceremonies, the phrasing was seen as deeply inappropriate.
Biden’s planned itinerary included visits to Ground Zero in New York City, the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. These solemn visits were meant to honor the nearly 3,000 victims of the terrorist attacks. However, the unfortunate way he worded his remarks overshadowed his intent.
The misstep quickly gained traction on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where critics wasted no time sharing their reactions. The Republican National Committee’s X account, RNC Research, tweeted a simple yet pointed response: “YIKES.” Other accounts, like Libs of TikTok, also chimed in, sharing clips of the gaffe and adding to the criticism.
Paul Williams, executive director of the Center for Public Enterprise, posted a satirical image of the Department of Homeland Security’s terrorism advisory system set to “Severe,” mocking the slip. Meanwhile, podcast host Mike Sperrazza tweeted, “He’s cooked,” referencing growing concerns about Biden’s mental sharpness.
This latest gaffe feeds into the ongoing narrative questioning the president’s cognitive abilities. Biden, who dropped out of the 2024 presidential race in July amid pressure from top Democratic leaders, has been under intense scrutiny for his verbal missteps and public appearances, where he sometimes freezes or appears confused.
The timing of the error also added fuel to the fire, coming just before Vice President Kamala Harris was set to face off against former President Donald Trump in a debate in Philadelphia. Biden’s endorsement of Harris to lead the Democratic ticket has made her an increasingly prominent figure in the party, but the president’s frequent slip-ups continue to cast a shadow over the administration.
As Biden continues his duties, including participating in the September 11th memorial services, the public and his political opponents will likely keep a close eye on his actions and statements moving forward. Despite the slip, the focus remains on the solemn remembrance of one of America’s darkest days.