Concerns about President Biden’s lack of access to the press grew on Wednesday evening after the commander-in-chief told reporters he was “happy to answer questions” before his microphone and camera power were cut.
The incident took place at the end of the 46th president’s performance at a House Democratic Caucus event, where he was virtually joined by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and her members.
Biden stated after his prepared comments, which lasted just under 10 minutes, “So I want to thank you all. I really mean it … I want to thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
“And I’m happy to answer questions like you – I have to, Nance,” he continued. “Whatever you want me to do.”
But before reporters had a chance to speak to the president, the feed was disabled and a screen appeared that read, “Thanks for joining.”
Biden outlasts its 15 most recent predecessors – 100 years back – without holding a solo press conference.
According to CNN’s analysis of data from the American Presidency Project, all 15 past presidents held a solo press conference within 33 days of taking office.
Former President Trump held his first solo press conference 27 days after taking office, while former President Obama held on for 20 days.
Thursday marks Biden’s 43rd day in office.
A White House spokesman did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
When asked about the matter on Wednesday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said: “We look forward to holding a full formal press conference, but in the meantime, the president regularly answers questions from reporters about the White House, including this morning. . “
“Day in and day out, his focus is on getting the pandemic under control and getting people back to work. That’s what people have chosen him to do. “
The commander-in-chief spoke briefly with reporters before boarding the presidential plane and answered some press inquiries after making public statements about the coronavirus and other matters.
Still, Biden shouldn’t just be confronted with reporters just yet.
The lack of a solo press comes despite a string of executive actions Biden has been taking since January 20 and his $ 1.9 trillion aid plan making its way through Congress.