Biden Jokes About Being an All-American Athlete on 9/11 Anniversary, Draws Criticism

President Joe Biden opened his remarks on the 22nd anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks by joking about how he could have been an All-American athlete in high school.

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President Joe Biden delivers remarks to service members, first responders, and their families on the 22nd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, on September 11, 2023. (SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

The joke was met with mixed reactions. Some people found it disrespectful to the victims of 9/11, while others thought it was just a harmless attempt at humor.

Biden later apologized for the joke, saying that he did not mean to offend anyone. He said that he was simply trying to lighten the mood on a somber day.

Criticism of Biden's Joke

Some people who criticized Biden's joke said that it was inappropriate to make light of such a serious event. They said that it was disrespectful to the victims of 9/11 and their families.

Others said that Biden's joke was insensitive to the firefighters, police officers, and other first responders who risked their lives to save others on 9/11.

Biden's Apology

Biden apologized for his joke, saying that he did not mean to offend anyone. He said that he was simply trying to lighten the mood on a somber day.

"I know that my words were not appropriate, and I deeply apologize," Biden said. "I know that there are many people who are still grieving the loss of loved ones on that day, and I was trying to honor them."

Whether or Not the Joke Was Appropriate

Whether or not Biden's joke was appropriate is a matter of opinion. Some people may find it offensive, while others may not. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide how they feel about it.

Biden's History of Making Inappropriate Jokes

This is not the first time that Biden has made a joke that has been perceived as insensitive. In 2020, he joked about the death of Republican Senator John McCain, who was a prisoner of war in Vietnam. Biden later apologized for that joke as well.

Impact of Biden's Jokes on His Presidency

It is unclear whether or not Biden's jokes will have a lasting impact on his presidency. However, it is clear that he needs to be more careful about what he says, especially on sensitive topics.