First Lady Jill Biden was candid in her criticism of former President Donald Trump during her visit to Virginia Beach, Virginia on Thursday, June 27, 2024. This visit was on the eve of the first 2024 presidential debate. Speaking to a group of approximately 75 supporters at the city’s Democratic Coordinated Campaign Office, Biden warned that Trump could become a “dictator on day one.”
“You all know that there are two visions for America, and you’ll see them tonight when you watch the debate. And you’ve already chosen your vision,” Biden told an engaged crowd. “You’ve chosen strong, steady leadership versus that other vision, which is chaos and corruption.”
Outside the event, a small group of Trump supporters staged a protest, holding signs that referred to the controversial laptop of Hunter Biden. Their chants could be heard during Jill Biden’s speech, accentuating the partisan divide in the current political climate.
Biden’s remarks were delivered during a critical phase in the presidential race, as Virginia appears to be a closely contested state. A recent poll by Roanoke College showed President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump neck and neck at 42% among the state’s likely voters. This tie underscores Virginia’s potential as a critical state in the forthcoming election.
One Joe Biden supporter, Maurice Hawkins, a 52-year-old sales worker, expressed his longing for unity. “President Biden has done an excellent job of working towards that,” Hawkins said, echoing the feelings of many attendees who are tired of the country’s divisions.
The visit to Virginia Beach by the First Lady is a part of the Biden campaign’s broader strategy to secure key states. After her visit, she headed to Atlanta to join President Biden for the debate. Simultaneously, Trump has planned a rally in Chesapeake, Virginia, for Friday, signaling his determination to make a robust effort in the state.
“Virginia is definitely in play this election cycle,” said Cole Trower, a 32-year-old small-business owner and Trump supporter. His presence at the event, along with other Trump supporters, indicates the intense competition anticipated in the state.
In her speech, Jill Biden also referred to the Biden family’s military ties. “When I hear Trump refer to our military personnel as losers and suckers… it’s infuriating. Absolutely infuriating,” she stated fervently, adding a personal aspect to her criticism of the former president. This sentiment struck a chord with many veterans and military families, an important demographic in Virginia.
The political dynamics in Virginia are influenced by a range of national issues. According to the Roanoke College Poll, 44% of voters identified the economy as their top concern. Immigration and abortion also emerged as significant issues, reflecting the diverse concerns of the electorate.
Both Biden and Trump face hurdles in earning favorability. The poll indicates that only 36% of respondents view each candidate favorably, with the majority expressing unfavorable opinions. This sentiment underscores the polarized nature of the electorate and suggests a potentially contentious election season.
The Biden campaign has been stressing the need for steady leadership and unity. Jill Biden’s comments are part of a wider effort to contrast her husband’s leadership style with Trump’s. “Joe is ready and confident,” she told reporters at a fundraising event in Atlanta. “We must not stop or become complacent. We must continue working together and put in more effort than ever.”