President Joe Biden made a surprise appearance on the 10th anniversary of “Late Night With Seth Meyers,” joking about a potential 2024 endorsement by Taylor Swift being classified information. Biden entered the stage after comedian Amy Poehler mentioned his previous appearance on the show as vice president. Biden, seeking additional ways to reach voters, has avoided traditional press conferences and interviews, including the pre-Super Bowl presidential interview.
During the interview, Meyers asked Biden about a conspiracy theory involving Taylor Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce helping Democrats win the election. Biden jokingly responded that the information was classified, referencing Swift’s endorsement of him in 2020. When asked if Swift would endorse him again, Biden playfully maintained the secrecy of the endorsement. He also addressed the “Dark Brandon” meme depicting him with lasers for eyes, jokingly saying he resented it and putting on aviator sunglasses.
At 81, Biden addressed concerns about his age by comparing himself to his political opponents, including Donald Trump, and highlighting the importance of the age of ideas rather than the age of the individuals. Biden criticized Trump for praising those involved in the Capitol insurrection and for pledging to pardon those who tried to overturn the 2020 election. He emphasized that such actions are not reflective of American values, comparing them to practices in Eastern European countries.
Meyers, known for his criticism of Trump, also devoted much of his show to criticizing the former president and Republicans over various issues, including a controversial court ruling in Alabama. He also highlighted the importance of criticizing and mocking leaders in a democracy, playing a clip of a Democrat suggesting that criticizing Biden is akin to supporting Trump. Meyers emphasized that it is healthy for democracy to question and critique leaders, regardless of political affiliation.
Biden, who has given fewer news conferences and interviews than his predecessors, stopped for mint chip ice cream with Meyers after the interview. Earlier in the day, he attended an event with donors at a midtown hotel. Despite his limited media appearances, Biden has used platforms like late-night shows to connect with voters and address various issues. The light-hearted interview with Meyers allowed Biden to showcase his sense of humor while also addressing important political topics and criticisms of his administration.
