Former President Joe Biden, while speaking at a Democratic Party gala in Maryland, criticized President Donald Trump and later appeared to seek directions on how to leave the stage. The incident occurred Saturday at the Maryland Democratic Party’s Fight Back & Win summit, held at the Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover.
During his remarks, Biden, who did not seek reelection in 2024, defended his administration's record and attacked Trump's policies. He specifically targeted Trump's approach to NATO, calling it a "deliberate distraction – destruction of NATO," and referred to Trump's White House renovations as a "vanity project."
Biden, 83, used a teleprompter for his speech and coughed multiple times. He drew applause from the audience when he stated, "Have you noticed that Americans are saying the economy under the Biden administration is a hell of a lot better than under Trump?"
He also criticized Trump for specific projects, including "tearing down the East Wing of the White House making room for his ballroom," and hiring "his own pool guy to fix the reflecting pool." Biden remarked that it was "simply stunning" that Trump made "billions of dollars" and "has no shame."
At the conclusion of his speech, after delivering a message about the nation's ability to overcome challenges, Biden turned to the side of the stage, appearing to seek guidance on his exit route. He pointed in different directions before identifying a path and leaving the stage with his back to the audience.
This appearance followed Biden's attendance at the grand opening of the Barack Obama presidential library in Chicago days earlier. At that event, Biden was also observed seeking assistance, asking "Where’s my granddaughter?" as the event concluded.
The former president has previously been noted for similar instances of apparent stage direction confusion, including an event in Italy in 2024. His speaking engagements have also drawn attention due to his ex-wife, Jill Biden, promoting her book and revealing her past concerns about his health following a debate in 2024. His son, Hunter Biden, has also been active on social media, promoting his art and engaging with critics.
Biden is currently managing Stage 4 prostate cancer.