In a recent interview, President Joe Biden was heard speaking on a radio show hosted by popular political commentator Charlamagne Tha God. While the president’s choice of media platform to voice his message is usually well received, some have criticized the move for promoting an antisemitic figure who recently referred to Jews as “termites”.
The comment was made by Charlamagne during an interview with Barnes & Noble earlier this year, where he said that “As far as the Jewish people, I just think they’re like termites. They gnaw on the best and the brightest. It feels like they’re the most successful race in the world, even other races admit that. And I’m like, ‘Y’all gnawing on the best and brightest.'”
The remarks drew the attention of the Anti-Defamation League, who quickly denounced the comments. Abraham Foxman, former National Director of the Anti-Defamation League, issued a statement saying “such inflammatory rhetoric feeds off of age-old stereotypes of Jews and is personally hurtful.”
These comments were not taken lightly by President Biden, who was aware of the remarks and chose to appear on the show anyways. While the president did not address the comments in his interview, he was vocal in his dissatisfaction during the broadcast when he said “This is exactly why we must stand against hate and bigotry in all its forms. This kind of rhetoric and these appalling views are not acceptable.”
President Biden’s decision to appear on the program has caused a divide in his supporters, many of which are wary of platforming any figure who expresses such hateful views. At the same time, there has also been an appreciation for Biden’s condemnation and criticism of Charlamagne’s statements.
Despite the backlash from some, the President’s team has chosen to stand by the decision to appear on Charlamagne’s show. While it is unclear what the president’s intent was, it is clear that his presence did make a statement and sent a clear message that hateful rhetoric is not tolerated.