President Joe Biden lamented on Monday about the restrictions imposed by his Secret Service detail, particularly when it comes to mingling with crowds at campaign events. This time, the 81-year-old president grumbled about being unable to get "up close and personal" with supporters, citing the ever-watchful eyes of his protectors who, apparently, have tightened the reins since the near-assassination of former President Donald Trump in July.
"I'm not able to go out into crowds anymore, the Secret Service doesn't let me", Biden complained to reporters on his way back from a Labor Day campaign stop with Vice President Kamala Harris in Pennsylvania. When asked why, the president reluctantly admitted, "They said it's too dangerous. No one gets to go out."
One might wonder, though, if the Secret Service is just playing it safe to prevent another classic Biden blunder—like that memorable fall up the stairs of Air Force One or the infamous bike mishap that left everyone holding their breath. After all, a spontaneous dive into the crowd might mean a spontaneous dive into the pavement. It wouldn't be the first time the president's sense of balance has sparked more concern than confidence.
This isn't the first time Biden has aired his grievances about his handlers. Throughout his presidency, he’s repeatedly hinted at being micromanaged by his own team, even to the point of needing "permission" to take questions from reporters. During a Michigan campaign stop in March, Biden sheepishly asked, "Can I take a couple questions?" as if seeking approval from his own staff. And who could forget the time in 2021 when he admitted, "I'm supposed to leave, but I can't resist your questions", much to the amusement (or concern) of the press corps.
The president's complaints might raise more than a few eyebrows, especially in light of his recent decision to bow out of the 2024 presidential race. After a less-than-stellar debate performance against Trump in late June, the White House faced a wave of concern over Biden's age and mental acuity. Now, with Biden stepping aside for Harris to take the reins, it seems the president is spending more time at vacation retreats than at the White House, as he likely reflects on the whirlwind that's been his term in office.
As Biden tries to reassure the public that "I feel real good about Pennsylvania" and remains optimistic about the future, perhaps the real question isn’t whether the Secret Service is too strict, but whether they’re simply trying to avoid another embarrassing episode—one that involves the president, a crowd, and the ground.
Maybe the Secret Service isn't just keeping him safe from the dangers of the public, but also from the ever-looming danger of his own two feet.
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