Social Media Erupts Over Reporter’s Question to President Biden About Language on Illegal Immigrant Murder Suspect
President Biden faced intense scrutiny on social media after a reporter questioned him about his language in condemning an illegal immigrant murder suspect. The incident occurred during his State of the Union address on Thursday when Biden referred to the alleged killer of Georgia student Laken Riley as “an illegal.” This remark, even though it was directed at an alleged illegal immigrant murderer, drew criticism from fellow Democrats and some members of the media.
The controversy began after Biden was heckled by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who demanded that he say the name of Riley, a student who was allegedly murdered by a Venezuelan illegal immigrant while jogging in Athens, Georgia last month. In response to the heckling, Biden used the term “illegal,” which sparked a heated debate.
As Biden left for a campaign trip to Philadelphia the following day, he was pressed by Reuters journalist Nandita Bose about whether he regretted using the term “illegal” to describe immigrants. Biden gave a hesitant and jumbled response before asserting that the murder suspect was “technically not supposed to be here.”
The incident quickly went viral on social media, with users expressing their opinions on both the reporter’s question and Biden’s response. Some defended Biden, arguing that he used the term “illegal” to refer specifically to the alleged murderer, not all immigrants. They pointed out that “alien” is a legal term under US law and the Immigration & Nationality Act.
However, others criticized the reporter for asking a “hacktastic” question and accused the media of prioritizing political correctness over the tragic murder of a young woman. They argued that the focus should be on holding the murderer accountable, rather than debating semantics.
Bose defended her question on Twitter, clarifying that she was referring to immigrants in general and not just the alleged killer. This led to further back-and-forth between supporters and critics.
The incident also drew attention to Biden’s lackluster response, with some comparing it to his energy during the State of the Union address the night before. Critics pointed out that while Biden claimed the murder suspect was “technically not supposed to be here,” his administration continues to allow illegal immigrants into the country.
Overall, the controversy highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding immigration and language use. It revealed the deep divisions within society and the media’s role in shaping public opinion. As the discussion continues online, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact Biden’s presidency and the broader immigration debate in the United States.