President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill attempted to shield themselves from criticism after the disastrous CNN presidential debate by participating in low-key marketing events.
At midnight, they went into a Waffle House in Atlanta, Georgia. First Lady Jill Biden placed her order at the counter while Joe loitered about, chatting with disinterested customers, still reeling from the humiliation that had just occurred on television.
In response to a reporter’s question on his performance in the debate, Biden said that he did a good job against former President Trump. When questioned about doubts about his abilities, Biden responded by shaking his head and forcing a grin.
Reports reveal that Jill Biden and her senior advisor, Anthony Bernal, are often seen exchanging looks over fears of what Biden would do and say.
Bernal, the most influential official in the East Wing, controls all aspects of the White House, including scheduling, speeches, messaging, and travel plans. He participates in senior conversations daily and provides input on the President’s and First Lady’s public personas.
Bernal’s job has also been under further scrutiny as pressure is growing on Jill, whom Biden insiders say is the only person who might persuade the frail President not to run again, and allegations fly about the extent to which she has sway within the Oval Office.
Bernal is an inseparable part of the Biden family, appearing at public events, meetings, and even family vacations. He seems to have approval over everything.
There is no job that is too low for Bernal. In addition to ensuring that all of the Biden clan get to their respective weekend getaways, he also handles the family pets’ itineraries.
Multiple current and former personnel of the White House have accused Bernal of verbal abuse and sexual harassment.
The claims include that Bernal, while arguing with other political aides and Secret Service officials, gossiped or speculated aloud about the size of their genitals. Bernal, who is gay, has allegedly made outlandish assumptions about the sexual orientation of coworkers. He, however, has denied all charges and has characterized them as racist and homophobic.
Bernal has a lot of sway over the President and first lady because of his devotion to them. It makes one wonder how much influence Bernal had in Joe Biden’s decision to stay in the 2024 presidential race.
