Biden’s ‘floating garbage’ comment sparks outrage in Mesquite
Mesquite residents dismayed by Biden's remarks on Trump supporters
In Mesquite, Nevada, a predominantly Republican area within the largely Democratic Clark County, residents express discontent over President Biden’s recent remarks. During a video call to encourage voter turnout, Biden criticised Tony Hinchcliffe, a comedian, for his comments at a Donald Trump rally. Hinchcliffe had referred to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage.” Biden responded by describing Trump’s supporters as “floating garbage,” criticising Hinchcliffe’s comments as un-American and discriminatory towards Latinos.
Following the backlash, the White House attempted to clarify that Biden’s remarks targeted only Hinchcliffe. For Trump supporters, however, the clarification came too late. Sandy Sorenson, a long-time Republican volunteer in Mesquite, expressed disbelief and dismay at being labelled “garbage.” She maintained she would never reciprocate by labelling Democratic voters in such a derogatory manner.
Karen Campbell, another volunteer, likened Biden’s comments to Hillary Clinton’s past “deplorables” remark, finding the language inappropriate. She dismissed Biden’s attempt to retract, criticising his frequent verbal missteps and rejecting labels like “trash” or “garbage.”
Bidon: "… the only garbage I see floating out there is his supporters…"
He later said he was talking about the comic that described Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage”..
Biden said what me meant.pic.twitter.com/AxXNkX4xOR
— WeldingAddict (@Controlavirus20) October 31, 2024
Lee McCord, a local voter, also reacted negatively to Biden’s statement, questioning his authority to make such a judgement. She criticised his political career, expressing scepticism about his election and referring to his supporters as “brainless” instead of “garbage.”
Mesquite, a city with a population nearing 23,000, is known for being retirement-friendly and is expected to grow. Despite the Republican stronghold, signs supporting Harris-Walz are visible in various areas, including Pioneer Boulevard.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Variety reports that President Biden’s ‘garbage’ comment was directed at a rally speaker, not Trump supporters, clarifying the controversy’s misinterpretation.(read more)
- NYPost reports the White House attributing President Biden’s “garbage” comment to a missing apostrophe, sparking damage control amidst controversy over his remarks.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What did Biden say about Trump supporters?
Biden described Trump supporters as ‘floating garbage’ in response to Tony Hinchcliffe’s comments.
How did Mesquite residents react to Biden’s remarks?
Residents expressed discontent, feeling insulted and comparing the remarks to Clinton’s ‘deplorables’ comment.
Did the White House clarify Biden’s comments?
Yes, they clarified that Biden’s remarks were directed only at Hinchcliffe.
What did residents compare Biden’s comments to?
Residents compared Biden’s comments to Hillary Clinton’s ‘deplorables’ remark.
Are there any signs of Democratic support in Mesquite?
Yes, signs supporting Harris-Walz are visible in areas like Pioneer Boulevard.
