In an unprecedented move, President Biden's limited availability for interviews has come under scrutiny, with only seven one-on-one interviews conducted this year. Critics argue that this lack of public accessibility poses a risk and calls into question the transparency of his administration.
The first interview took place in February, when Biden sat down with Lester Holt during the Super Bowl. However, it wasn't until four months later, in June, that another interview was conducted. During this time, many were left wondering why the President was not making himself more available to the public.
Before October 7, Biden participated in interviews with News 12 and journalists from Israel, sparking further debate on his engagement with the media. Finally, he appeared on the popular news program 60 Minutes. However, with only a limited number of interviews under his belt, concerns persist about the President's level of accessibility.
In comparison to his predecessor, President Trump, Biden has conducted significantly fewer press conferences. While Trump engaged in 27 press engagements or avails during his first year in office, Biden has held only nine press conferences. This discrepancy has caught the attention of those who advocate for the democratization of information and believe that the President should communicate openly and regularly with the public.
Critics argue that Biden's lack of availability for interviews and press conferences limits the public's understanding of his plans and hinders the ability of citizens to connect with their leader. Furthermore, his personal attributes, including whether he is perceived as likable or has the necessary energy and acuity, have also come under scrutiny. These factors contribute to the overall negative public perception of the President, which is reflected in his approval ratings.
Moreover, concerns have been raised about the President's priorities in light of his limited schedule. While he has made time for interviews with comedians, such as the recent interview with Conan O'Brien, his engagement with journalists has been lacking. At a time when pressing issues, like the ongoing conflict in Israel and the struggles faced by many Americans, require attention and action, some find this focus on entertainment disappointing.
Ultimately, the lack of regular communication between President Biden and the American people raises concerns about transparency and accountability. Many argue that for a robust democracy to function, the public needs consistent and direct access to their elected officials. In an era where information moves at lightning speed, the importance of timely and open communication from the President cannot be overstated.
