Concern over President Biden’s lack of accessibility to the press rose Wednesday evening, after the commander-in-chief told reporters he was “happy to ask questions” before cutting off his microphone and camera.
The incident occurred at the end of the appearance of the 46th President in an act of the Democratic Caucus of the House, where he was practically joined by the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, and its members.
Biden stated after uttering his prepared comments, which lasted just under ten minutes, “So I want to thank you all. I really mean it … I want to thank you. Thank you, thank you , thanks.
“And I’m happy to ask myself questions if that’s what I’m supposed to do, Nance,” he continued. “Whatever you want me to do.”
But before reporters could have a chance to talk to the president, the feed went off and a screen appeared saying, “Thank you for participating.”
Biden has spent more time than his 15 most recent predecessors (100 years ago) without holding a solo press conference.
The previous 15 presidents held a solo press conference within 33 days of taking office, according to a CNN analysis of data from the U.S. Presidency Project.
Former President Trump held his first solo press conference 27 days after taking office, while former President Obama held a twenty-day one at work.
Thursday marks the 43rd day of Biden in office.
A White House spokesman did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
Asked about the matter on Wednesday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said: “We hope to hold a full formal press conference, but in the meantime the president receives questions from journalists who regularly cover the White House, including this morning. “.
“His day-to-day life focuses on controlling the pandemic and getting people back to work. That’s what people have chosen to do. “
The commander-in-chief spoke briefly with reporters before boarding the presidential plane and received some questions from the press after making public statements about the coronavirus and other issues.
Still, Biden has yet to face journalists alone.
The lack of a solo press comes despite a large number of executive actions that Biden has taken since Jan. 20 and whose $ 1.9 trillion relief plan is making its way to Congress .